Five Tips for Buying a Stair Climber Machine

A stair climber machine is wonderful for toning your legs and buttocks. Climbing or stepping burns plenty of calories, too, for a good aerobic workout. Buying a stair climber is a great investment in fitness. Here are five tips for buying a stair climber wisely:

Get the right stair stepper

The exercise devices called stair climbers come in two main types. One is a rotating set of stairs, something like an escalator, that you actually climb. They are sometimes called stair mills. These large heavy machines are mostly found in gyms, and are becoming increasingly rare even there.

The more common stair climber machine is often called a stair stepper. On a stepper, you stand on two pedals and push them down in turn, against resistance. These machines are probably safer for your joints than the older style because you are not actually climbing. They are also lighter and take up somewhat less space.

Size matters

In general, a large stepper will be more stable. However, it will also be harder to move if you decide you don't like where the delivery people put it. Steppers do take up space, so be sure you measure before you buy.

Folding steppers have arms that swing up, to save space. They will fit in locations where a full-size stepper might not.

Small travel steppers have no rails to hold. While they are extremely portable, they are harder to use at first. They are the most inexpensive stepper option, however, with a price hundreds of dollars below most full-sized models.

Shop smart

Pay only for features you want or need. Many steppers have elaborate computer consoles into which you can program an entire workout routine. You can set the machine for endurance exercise, for intervals or for a slow, relaxing routine. Such machines can also tell you approximately how many calories you are burning as you step.

Some people like the discipline of doing a programmed routine each day, while others find fussing with the computer a distraction. For them, simpler models have fewer options, or even controls that are adjusted manually. The resistance can be adjusted to make it harder or easier to step, and that is about it. Decide which type you want, and what you are willing to pay.

Know your vendor

Make sure you can send the machine back if it does not suit you, and that you can get service. Exercise machines will stand up to years of hard use, but may well need repair during that time. You might save money in the long run by buying from a reliable vendor who offers a service contract.

Try out your stair climber

As when you buy anything, try it out first if possible. Make sure you are comfortable on the machine, that the controls are easy to use and that it feels stable. Compare the feel of a few models, instead of settling for the first one you try or the one at the gym. Take your time. A stepper is a major investment that should yield years of relaxation, fun and fitness.