Stepper simulator: what muscles work, the benefits of training

Nowadays, many people want to have a beautiful, toned figure, but at the same time they want to do fitness at home. There are many different reasons for this, for example, lack of time and desire to visit a sports gym, or simply reluctance to exercise surrounded by strangers. This problem can be easily solved by purchasing a home exercise machine called a stepper. Reviews and results, prices, which simulator to choose - all this is in the article.

The operation of this simulator is based on simulating climbing stairs. Exercising on it improves metabolic processes, eliminates cellulite, and also increases the overall endurance of the body. In the material below we will consider models that are ideal for home use. Happy reading!

Types of steppers

It should be noted that the stepper - a home exercise machine - may differ in the type of movements performed. Let's look at each type separately and see which one is more effective.

Classical. The classic model reproduces climbing up the stairs. This is the ancestor of all stepping machines. A very suitable option for people with sedentary work and leading a sedentary lifestyle. Training on it is simple but effective. It can be designed as a regular platform with pedals or have a stand with handles to maintain balance when walking.
Ministepper. A miniature variation of a regular full-sized stepper. Both of them belong to the category of aerobic exercise machines, exercises on which are rhythmically repeated over a certain period of time, using several muscle groups at once. The stepper device is quite simple: it is a platform with two pedals that work interdependently or autonomously, and is sometimes additionally equipped with hand expanders attached to cables.
Turning. The design includes a special handle connected to the pedal mechanism. The steps taken on the simulator set the pedals in motion in the horizontal plane, which encourages the trainee to turn the whole body. The pedal stroke can be adjusted: you can set different gains for the left and right pedals. This is a very useful option if increased or, conversely, decreased load on one leg is required, for example, in the event of an injury or surgery.
With expanders. Among other cardio machines and exercise bikes, this design has become the most optimal and most effective for simultaneously training the muscles of the upper and lower body. It combines a stepper for the legs and an expander for the arms, loading other muscles of the body during the training process.
Balancing. A distinctive characteristic of the balancing device is that the steps taken with its help resemble rolling from side to side. At this time, the body tries to maintain a vertical position relative to the central axis of the simulator. This stimulates not only the legs, but also forces the arms and shoulder muscles to work.
Elliptical. The design of the ellipse, in addition to pedals with an elliptical amplitude of rotation, includes expanders, handrails or movable handles for the hands. Thanks to them, the arms not only have support for better balance, but are also included in the work along with the entire upper body.
Hydraulic. The operation of pedals on cylinders creates an increased load, unlike electromechanical models. Therefore, such a simulator is suitable for effective training, and its undoubted advantage is its low price.
Staircase. The main advantage of a stair stepper over conventional ones is the low-impact workout that is safe on the joints, this is achieved through the use of a piston resistance system that absorbs shock.

What muscles work on the stepper?

First of all, the stepper works on the muscles of the lower body.

These include:

Quadriceps is the quadriceps muscle of the thigh.
Gluteus maximus muscle.
Gluteus minimus muscle.
Biceps femoris muscle.
Calf muscle.

If the simulator is equipped with additional levers for the arms with a rotating mechanism, then other muscles are also included in the work:

Rectus and oblique abdominal muscles.
Pectoral muscles.
Triceps.
Latissimus dorsi muscles.

They are used to a lesser extent, but even in this case the load is complex and effective.

Rating of the TOP 10 best stepper-type exercise machines: reviews and results, pros and cons

The rating of the best devices, in our opinion, includes the following models:

DFC SC-5901.
Starfit HT-201.
Indigo Super Twister IR101-5.
Starfit KT-101.
Body Sculpture BS-1122HA-B.
Torneo Ritmo S-112B/S-112W.
DFC SC-S008B.
Sport Elite GB-5105/ST0732-01.
BRADEX Cardio Twister SF 0033.
DFC SC-S085.

Let's take a closer look at the presented assortment.

DFC SC-5901

Home stepper DFC SC-5901 with a stand and a convenient handrail. For ease of movement, the housing is equipped with small transport rollers. It is worth noting that the design is quite compact in size and not too heavy, so any user can independently move the product as needed. A special heart rate sensor is attached to the steering wheel, the readings of which are displayed on the screen. The set includes a bottle with a convenient holder.

Type	classical
Console readings	scan, time, distance, pulse, age, rpm, fat analyzer, pulse recovery
Heart rate measurements	touch sensors on the handrails, chest belt with DFC W117 monitor (additional option)

Price: from 22990 to 25000 rubles.

compact dimensions (117x80x147 cm);
high load (up to 117 kg);
the heart rate sensor readings are displayed on the screen;
monochrome LCD display.

not found.

Great stepper that I bought last month. It is convenient to study on it and it does not take up much space in the room. The price for it is quite normal, which is important. Thanks to stepper training, I began to lose excess weight. Thanks to the manufacturers, I definitely recommend it.

stepper trainer DFC SC-5901

Starfit HT-201

The HT-201 Stepper with handle is a must-have exercise machine for any professional athlete or office worker. The function of turning the feet allows for rotation of the hip joint, which, in turn, allows, with the foot fully raised at the top point, to maximally stretch the fibers of the gluteal muscles, which will ultimately provoke their more complete development. And the vertical handle will help maintain body balance.

Type	classical
Console readings	calories
Heart rate measurements	No

Cost: from 4600 to 5269 rubles.

bright design (green; yellow);
the display displays data on the number of steps taken, current speed and calories;
maximum load - 100 kg.

There is no heart rate measurement.

I have long dreamed of purchasing a home and compact exercise machine, because... I don't have enough time for the gym. I'm happy with the purchase, I use it every day. With its help, I began to confidently lose weight, and the calorie counter helps me navigate this. I put it on the balcony, since in a one-room apartment there is very little space even for such a small-sized exercise machine. I am very pleased with the purchase, I recommend it.

stepper trainer Starfit HT-201

Indigo Super Twister IR101-5

The presented simulator is very effective for training the abdominal muscles and lateral muscles of the torso, the inner and outer surface of the thigh and buttocks. The monitor allows you to control the number of steps per minute, the total number of steps, exercise time, and the number of calories burned. The kit includes a training disc that can guide you through effective workouts for losing weight and getting in great physical shape.

Which stepper is better - rotary or classic?

The classic model simulates walking on stairs. Suitable for people with sedentary work and those who lead an inactive lifestyle. A classic home stepper does not put much strain on the cardiovascular system. Cardio training is simple, but quite effective.

The rotary stepper simulates a more complex version of walking. It is often used by skiers preparing for new competitions.

Advice! Swivel models can be purchased for home if you need to involve your back and abs, in addition to your legs and buttocks.

Before purchasing, it is better to choose the right stepper in the gym and try it out. This will help you choose a more convenient and useful model, as well as an affordable one.

In terms of functionality, a rotary stepper for home is better. The pedal axes are located at an angle. This model involves the muscles of the inner thigh. Some models have a palm rest that rotates left and right, forcing the user to turn and step at the same time, using the abdominal and back muscles in the process.

Comparison of the presented models

In order to compare the presented models, we recommend taking a look at their characteristics in the table below.

Model	Pulse measurement	Indications	Type	Price, rub)
DFC SC-5901	touch sensors on the handrails, chest belt with DFC W117 monitor (additional option)	scan, time, distance, pulse, age, rpm, fat analyzer, pulse recovery	classical	from 22990 to 25000
Starfit HT-201	No	calories	classical	from 4600 to 5269
Indigo Super Twister IR101-5	No	number of steps, calories, distance traveled	classical	from 6470 to 7800
Starfit KT-101	No	number of steps taken, calories and time	children's	from 4000 to 4999
Body Sculpture BS-1122HA-B	No	training time, number of steps, steps/min, calories burned	ministepper	from 3890 to 4100
Torneo Ritmo S-112B/S-112W	absent	training time, number of steps per training, rhythm, total distance, calories burned	ministepper	from 2999 to 3100
DFC SC-S008B	absent	time, number of steps per workout, rhythm (number of steps per minute), calories, scan	ministepper rotary	from 5490 to 6000
Sport Elite GB-5105/ST0732-01	absent	training time, number of steps taken, steps per minute, calories burned	ministepper	from 3890 to 4230
BRADEX Cardio Twister SF 0033	absent	number of steps and calorie consumption	ministepper	from 3890 to 4500
DFC SC-S085	absent	time, number of steps per workout, rhythm, calories, scan	turning	from 4180 to 5000

Best lists

Let's look at the best devices in the following categories:

Classical.
Mini.
Turning.

Let's study the presented assortment in more detail.

Proteus ISS550HP - classic

The exercise machine is great for home exercise. It has a hydraulic loading system with twelve resistance levels. The model is equipped with a battery-powered computer. The intuitive display shows information about exercise time, number and speed of steps, as well as the amount of energy consumed.

Price: from 36,500 to 37,000 rub.

stepper trainer Proteus ISS550НР

Body Sculpture BS-1370HAR-B - mini

The ministepper with expander is easy to use, small in size and has a classic, calm design. The mini-computer shows the time and the number of steps per minute. The price is very affordable for a stepper with an expander. In addition, this model is presented in a huge number of catalogs and it will be easy to find it on sale.

Price tag: from 5660 to 5300 rubles.

stepper exercise machine Body Sculpture BS-1370HAR-B

DFC SC-S032 - rotary

Compact and convenient. Additionally equipped with expanders. The mini-computer shows time, number of steps, and calculation of calories burned. The design is laconic and unobtrusive. Maximum user weight is 110 kg.

Price category: from 4000 to 4490 rubles.

stepper trainer DFC SC-S032

Best Stair Steppers

Life Fitness PowerMill X

A serious machine for training people of completely different levels of physical fitness. It doesn’t just imitate climbing stairs, but completely reproduces it. It has impressive dimensions, but requires significantly less space than fellow treadmills. Most often purchased for gyms, but professionals also appreciate it and buy it. The machine's computer has built-in exercise programs that can be updated and changed using a Wi-Fi connection. 12 speed modes, control of time and intensity, measurement of cardio indicators - all this is Life Fitness PowerMill X. Manufacturers have thought through all the little things that will make the use of sports equipment more comfortable: a stand for a cup and a phone, a connector for charging a smartphone, devices that compensate for possible unevenness in the floor. Withstands a maximum weight of up to 180 kg.

Matrix C7XI-05

The global brand MATRIX has prepared the C7XI-05 climber for fitness enthusiasts. Over the 7 years of production, this stair stepper has earned the recognition and love of athletes around the world. It allows you to carry out serious physical training in full, while maintaining a personal diary of achievements. The computer remembers indicators of time, heart rate, activity activity, which gives an idea of the dynamics of the athlete’s work. It has a Russian interface, free connection to Internet applications. Creates an entertaining environment while performing monotonous exercises. Provides 25 workout programs. Completely safe and easy to use. Durable materials, the latest electronic components, and beautiful design will allow the owner to fully experience all the achievements of progress. Withstands loads up to 180 kg.

Tips for choosing

Before purchasing this type of exercise machine, we recommend that you look at a couple of tips that will definitely help you buy a high-quality and effective device.

Device with or without motor? A stepper with a motor will make your movements smoother. You've probably seen such models in fitness clubs. Smooth movements have less negative impact on the joints. Steppers without a motor or “manual” steppers cost less and are quieter.
Computerization. Whatever type of stepper or elliptical trainer you choose, a certain list of information should be displayed on the monitor:

number of steps;
number of calories burned;
training time;
pulse;
distance traveled;
training programs (usually found in more expensive models).

Warranty conditions. It’s good if you can be sure that the manufacturer has taken care of the warranty on the simulator. Many steppers (and elliptical trainers) come with a 5-year warranty, and some even come with a 10- or 20-year warranty. Before paying for your purchase, check what warranty terms the manufacturer offers. It would also be a good idea to read the reviews of those who have already purchased the company’s products.

How to choose a stepper

The market presents a huge number of varieties of steppers. They differ in maximum load, size, configuration, and price. Purchasing a simulator can be for various purposes. Some people simply want to maintain the normal state of the body, some need to develop joints after injuries and illnesses, others want to lose weight. There are also those who want to become stronger and more resilient. Thus, everyone chooses a stepper according to their needs.

There are important points that you should pay attention to when choosing a stepper:

Compliance of the size of the sports equipment with the free space in the house;
Adequacy of the chosen model to the goals set;
Strength of structure and parts. The mechanism itself may be quite simple, but the breakdown of any little thing will not allow it to be used further;
Maximum possible load capacity. However, it is not recommended to take the units directly next to your weight. It is better to give him 20-30 kg of reserve.

There is no need to rush into making a choice. Only after seriously considering a future purchase, comparing user reviews, reading ratings, comparing your physical capabilities with the programs offered on various units and consulting your wallet, can you make a responsible decision. After all, this is not just buying another product, it is a decision to change your life, paying special attention to your health.

Types of steppers

Various modifications of the simulator allow classification according to several key characteristics: by purpose (pay attention to functionality), by the type of pedal stroke, by the complexity of the design, by the type of basic movements, etc. Let's look at several main types from different classifications.

Classical

This type is intended solely to imitate the movement of a person on the stairs. It does not provide any additional exercises. Ensures adequate functioning of the cardiovascular system and strengthens muscles. There are different models of the classic stepper according to the type of pedal stroke, with or without handles, but the basic principle remains the same. It is recommended for those who are starting to get involved in sports, for the elderly, and for those who prefer moderate exercise.

Ministepper

A small apartment or a small charging corner in the office are the basis for choosing a ministepper. In addition to the fact that it does not take up little space, it can be easily transported. Compact, convenient, it will perform its task no worse than its larger counterparts. When purchasing a mini model, you need to pay special attention to the possible operating weight.

Rotary (with rotating handle)

With expanders

If we add expanders to any of the above models, we will get the most functional sports equipment, exercises on which will provide serious work to both the legs and the shoulder girdle. By changing the direction of movement with the hands, adjusting the stretchability of the expanders, the user can coordinate efforts and results.

Balancing

The balancing stepper differs from conventional stepping machines. The movements of the legs on it are not like steps on the stairs, but like rolling a mini-swing. When transferring body weight from one pedal to another, the user must change his body position to avoid falling. If classes on the classical model can take place automatically, without the active participation of consciousness, then this will not work on the balancing model. In addition to training muscles and blood vessels, this exercise helps develop a sense of balance.

Elliptical

This sports equipment has impressive dimensions and is a rather complex structure in which pedals and handles move. The pedals describe an elliptical orbit, which, on the one hand, complicates the work of the muscles, and on the other, reduces the pressure on the joints. The dimensions and cost of such a unit correspond to considerable functionality.

Hydraulic

Depending on the type of pedal movement, the stepper can be hydraulic or electromagnetic. The first one is the simplest. Its operation is based on the fact that two interconnected cylinders operate on the principle of reciprocating change. A mechanical effect occurs when alternating the support of the legs. In the event of a breakdown, repairs will not cause much trouble, since the design is very simple.

Staircase

Combines the principle of a treadmill with a stepper. The operating speed of the stair steps is adjusted on the control panel, and training programs are also installed and saved there. This unit has impressive dimensions, a complex design and allows you to get intense training of various muscles.

Children's

In the nursery, many parents organize a sports sector for the physical development of their child. An excellent addition to the Swedish wall would be a children's stepper, which will help the child take his mind off tablets and other devices and exercise at any time. Bright colors, safe details and small sizes make this projectile attractive to many parents and useful for children.