TOP 11 best steppers: 2021 rating and which one is better to choose for your home

Expert: Anton Leonidovich Glinsky

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Those who want to have a toned body and exercise at home should purchase a stepper. Its action is based on simulating ascent on foot. In this way, fat burning is achieved, cellulite is eliminated and the overall endurance of the body increases. Of course, it is important to choose the right cardio machine and not make a mistake with the purchase.

How to choose the right stepper

When choosing a stepper, it is important to consider the following parameters:

1. Apartment area
   . For a small room, a small balancing model is suitable.
2. Body weight.
   It should not exceed the threshold specified in the technical specifications.
3. Training program
   . It is better to choose a multifunctional stepper with the ability to adjust the load.
4. The presence of an expander and handrails.
   They allow you to strengthen your abs and maintain balance.
5. Affordability
   . With daily exercise, you can achieve good results with cheap exercise equipment.

Before purchasing, you should decide on the type of stepper. It happens:

1. classical;
2. ministepper;
3. turning;
4. with expanders;
5. balancing;
6. elliptical;
7. hydraulic;
8. staircase

The choice depends on financial capabilities and personal preferences. In any case, it is worth considering products from trusted brands that have long established themselves in the sports equipment market. A rating of the best steppers, compiled taking into account consumer feedback, will help with this.

Steppers – what are they and what are they?

A stepper is a modern sports equipment for walking that belongs to the category of cardio equipment. The name comes from the English word “step”, which means “to step”. The movements performed with the help of the simulator are similar to the movements made when climbing stairs.

Depending on the dimensions and design features, the following types of steppers are distinguished:

• Standard ones are large in size and are often equipped with additional levers that provide load on the upper body. May also have handrails;
• Ministeppers are compact exercise machines in the form of a platform with pedals, but without hand support. The best mini-devices are complemented by expanders.

Depending on the principle of operation, there are mechanical and electromagnetic models.

Mechanical ones operate due to hydraulic cylinders, that is, the device is activated by human effort, pressing one pedal, the other begins to move in the opposite direction. Such exercise machines are budget-friendly, low-noise, do not consume electricity and are best suited for use at home.

The operating principle of electromagnetic structures is based on magnetic resistance, and the operating parameters are set using a control system. The majority of modern stepper models are electromagnetic; they are intended for professional use in sports clubs due to their significant size and high cost.

Types of steppers

• Classic - equipped with two small platforms that move up and down. Works the leg muscles perfectly. A distinctive feature of the design of the classic model is the maximum reduction in the load on the knee joints - it is almost zero;
• Rotary – unlike the classic one, the rotary one is supplemented with a special mechanism. With its help, the body makes turns to the side simultaneously with steps, which allows you to use not only your legs, but also your abdominal and back muscles during training;
• Balancing - training on such a device is more complex and energy-consuming, since during the exercise it is necessary to maintain and control balance, for which many muscles of the body are brought into tension, and a complex set of movements, during the execution of which the center of gravity shifts from side to side, allows develop coordination;
• Staircase – simulates walking on stairs as accurately as possible. The steps of the device move independently in a circle, which ensures load distribution in such a way as to isolate the joints;
• Elliptical – resembles an exercise bike in appearance and allows you to “step” forward or backward, which allows you to have a comprehensive approach to training. Exercising on the elliptical stepper increases endurance and is suitable for fitness.

Next, we will consider the main selection criteria that will help you understand which stepper is best to buy for your home.

Rating of the best steppers

Reviews and results of losing weight

I tried to select the most informative reviews for you.

Lyalya: I study in front of the TV in the evenings instead of dinner. Class time is up to half an hour. Perfectly toned my legs and butt.

Kira: I work out on a stepper in the gym. Before class, I run for about 20 minutes, then stepper. I practice on it for at least 50 minutes. On average I try for about an hour. I don’t know about anyone, but I break out in three sweats. I probably lose 1000 calories per workout. The effect is visible after just a few sessions. Your legs are losing weight and your butt is getting toned.

Ninulka: I have tightened up my buttocks a lot in a month. I walk about 1500 steps. Then I take one kilogram dumbbells and walk another 700 steps. During classes I watch TV. I turn on my favorite TV series and train.

Lilia: I'm probably doing something wrong. My knees hurt a lot during classes. Perhaps due to the fact that I never played sports at all. I guess you just need to get used to the stress.

Lenchik: I went on a fruit and vegetable diet. Stepper daily for 30 minutes. The result is minus 6 kg in two months.

Vitalina: I work out for half an hour 2-3 times a week, until I lost 3 kg.

Natalya: My butt has become firm and round, but my legs at the top have become more voluminous. That's why I abandoned the stepper.

Tatyana: And my beloved husband gave me a mini-stepper for my anniversary. Happy as an elephant. I'm too lazy to go for a run. And this thing is always at hand. You can study at any convenient time. Perfectly tightens the whole body.

Lyuba: I’ve been working out on the gym for a month. Every day I walk about 1000 steps. The volume decreased greatly, I lost 7 kg. But in addition to classes, I eat a low-calorie diet.

The best classic steppers

Classic exercise machines are the simplest design, which is ideal for people who spend a lot of time on a PC or do little exercise. This stepper makes your feet walk as if you were walking down a staircase.

Sportop MST 8100P

Rating: 4.9

The MST 8100 P exercise machine with a magnetic braking system allows you to perfectly work out the muscles of the legs, thighs and buttocks. It helps reduce excess weight and improve the functioning of internal organs and blood vessels. Ease of use is achieved thanks to smooth running and quiet operation. The device has the functions of an ergometer and determination of body type. A computer with color backlight displays all the necessary values.

All the simulators are quite large - 78 kg. It is suitable for people weighing up to 135 kg. The price of the simulator is not affordable for everyone. On average, an electric stepper costs 85 thousand rubles.

Advantages

• comfort during training;
• visible effect from classes;
• 16 load levels;
• multifunctionality;

Flaws

• bulky;
• high price;
• heavy;

Ritmo S-112B/S-112W/S-112T

​Photo: https://beru.ru

The classic ministepper Ritmo S-112B/S-112W/S-112T imitates walking on stairs, providing a high load on the leg muscles, as well as maintaining the tone of all major muscle groups. The most important advantage is the compactness of the sports simulator. Its dimensions are 44 x 30 x 30 cm, and it weighs only 6.6 kg. Efficiency and load uniformity are ensured by the interdependent travel of the ministepper pedals. As for the loading system, it is hydraulic. This means that there will be a high smoothness of movement without overload on the joints, as well as a low noise level.

Ministepper Ritmo S-112B/S-112W/S-112T

Advantages:

• efficiency
• nice price
• compactness
• ease of use

Flaws:

• heats up
• no load adjustment

The best rotary steppers

Cardio twisters have an additional mechanism that provides two types of movement - walking and lateral rotation of the body. This is an excellent choice for those who want to pump up their legs, strengthen their back and abdominal muscles.

DFC SC-S085

Rating: 4.9

The leader in the rating among rotary steppers is the DFC SC-S085 model. It is distinguished by its versatility and the ability to change the degree of load (eight levels). If you detach the movable handles, you can get a compact device for your home. When using the entire device, you will be able to achieve good results for the muscles of the back, abs, buttocks and legs.

The stepper has a built-in display, additional compensation for surface unevenness and adjustable pedal height. Buyers note a slight plastic smell after the first purchase of the exercise machine. However, it soon disappears naturally. Price – 4790 rubles.

Advantages

• pedal adjustment;
• non-slip platform;
• comfortable handles;
• 8 load levels;

Flaws

• absence of a heart rate monitor on the display.

DFC SC-S083

Photo: https://beru.ru

Classic ministepper DFC SC-S083. This machine perfectly works and tones the buttocks and leg muscles. The non-slip surface of the foot platforms ensures safety, and the design itself is made of high-quality materials - this allows the stepper to withstand high loads. But the most important thing is that the ministepper does not take up much space. This unique simulator is easy to install, convenient to use and easy to transport. The loading system consists of two hydraulic cylinders that provide interdependent pedal travel.

DFC SC-S083

Advantages:

• nice price
• compactness
• ease of use

Flaws:

• creaking when in use

The best professional steppers

Professional exercise machines are usually used in athletic clubs and fitness centers. However, many athletes prefer to have a high-quality stepper at home, especially if the room space allows it. Professional models are distinguished by a particularly stable design, various programs and touch sensors.

Matrix S3X (2012)

Rating: 4.9

The professional model from the global brand Matrix stands out among other participants in the rating not only because of its high price, but also because of its original design, due to which it fits perfectly into any interior. The excellent biomechanics of the stepper is achieved using a precise trajectory of movements, optimal space between the step rise and the pedals, and the highest quality parts.

The main advantages of the simulator include grooved rubber pedals, independence from the mains, the presence of an online multimedia service, functions for downloading, analyzing and saving personal data. The cost of a professional stepper exceeds 300 thousand rubles. It can withstand weight up to 182 kilograms.

Advantages

• various console indicators with a multilingual interface;
• effectively pumps muscles;
• 25 load levels;
• special software features;

Flaws

• bulkiness and heaviness (weighs 125 kg);
• Suitable mainly for the gym.

The effectiveness of weight loss when exercising on a stepper

The name of this training device begins with the word Step, which in English means a step and explains the basis of the principle of its operation. On the stepper, it is recommended to simply walk, simulating climbing stairs, or perform special additional exercises that can be agreed upon with any fitness trainer. But even simple exercises on simulators without specialized exercises can improve your physical activity, speed up your metabolism, and optimize the state of your respiratory and cardiovascular systems. But it is still recommended to consult specialists and fulfill certain conditions, as well as specific exercises in order to achieve the most pronounced results.

The stepper is universal because it uses muscles that are located in problem areas, such as the thighs and buttocks, and also improves blood flow throughout the body. Regular exercise on such a simulator will quickly allow you to get rid of extra pounds and centimeters. In addition, regular exercises will allow you to achieve the following:

1. Reduce the visible appearance of cellulite.
2. They activate the breakdown of subcutaneous fat deposits, from which folds on the abdomen are formed.
3. Strengthen all muscle groups when using a machine with lever handles.
4. Improvement of tissue and brain trophism due to more active oxygen saturation of the blood.
5. Increases the body's endurance.
6. Dispersing stagnant blood in the pelvic area, which is especially good for the female reproductive system.

Best Stair Steppers

A ladder-type stepper is called a climber. Such models have steps with handrails and are characterized by minimal noise, lack of additional maintenance, and high cost.

Matrix C7XI-05

Rating: 4.9

The last participant in the rating is one of the most popular exercise machines in fitness clubs. The climber is comfortable and safe to use at any speed. The handles and handrails are located as conveniently as possible. They give a feeling of stability. If the user stops moving, the stepper's movement is blocked. The same will happen if a person leaves the stairs, or if any object falls into the opening.

Particularly noteworthy is the state-of-the-art Android-based display, which contains many interactive functions aimed at motivation, entertainment and service. The heaviest user weight is 82 kilograms. The simulator itself weighs a lot - 172 kg. Its price exceeds 1 million rubles.

Advantages

• safety of use;
• strengthening muscle mass;
• losing excess weight;
• original design;
• high quality construction;
• availability of multimedia service;

Flaws

• high price;
• heavy weight.

What to choose: 3 models for you

It’s easy for an inexperienced person to get confused by the brands, modifications and price variety of classic steppers. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is better to give preference to manufacturers of sports equipment known for quality and reliability, such as HouseFit, Sports Art. The service life of Russian and Ukrainian brands, for example, “USA Style” and “Torneo”, at the same price, is shorter, but breakdowns occur more often, and warranty replacement of parts is “lame”.

Recently, Chinese and Korean brands have rushed to the sports market. But the standard of quality and reliability still remains “Kettler”, “Precor”, “Star Trac”. They are too expensive for home use only, so you can find them more often in gyms. We offer three models for your acquaintance - just offhand.

Ladder-stepper (climber) “Matrix C5X”

Johnson is an American brand of orbitracks, treadmills, strength, cycling and cardio exercise equipment. In the sports equipment market - since 1977, exporter to more than 70 countries. The Matrix C5X brand climber has:

1. a huge amount of functionality - the latest training programs, multimedia, service and entertainment applications;
2. unique design - a compact moving staircase resembling a mini-escalator;
3. maximum comfort and safety - calculated heights of handrails and steps, a pause when a foreign body hits or a sudden stop of the student;
4. Suitable for athletes of any weight, height and size.

The only “but” of the stair stepper is that all this beauty costs more than 700 thousand rubles, and therefore is available more for modern fitness centers than for home use.

Stingray ST-7707

Country of origin: China. Model with handle and mechanical hydraulic loading system, without built-in programs. It has:

1. simple load adjustment mechanism - manually with a wheel;
2. electronic mechanism with display for counting the number of steps, calories burned, miles traveled and activity time;
3. The pedals are autonomous, with stops and bumps, which ensures non-slip feet and additionally massages the foot.

Withstands user weight up to 100 kg, price varies from 2700 to 3800 rubles. A good home alternative to gym classes and exercise bikes.

Kettler Montana

One of the most popular full-size models for home exercises from a German manufacturer. It has:

1. independent pedal travel;
2. hydraulic resistance system;
3. 12-level load adjustment (mechanical);
4. for analyzing sports activity, sensors, a computer with several functions, including assessing the body’s ability to recover “Fitness test” ;
5. floor unevenness balancer.

Withstands user weight up to 110 kg. The price varies from 15 to 30 thousand rubles.