Stair steppers were considered the state-of-the-art in aerobic fitness machines, though in the past few years they have been overshadowed by elliptical machines, cardio kickboxing classes and Pilates. However, though you don't witness the rows and rows of stair stepper machines that once filled the center of the gym floor, a stair stepper is still a good way to achieve cardiovascular fitness.

Remember to confer with your health practitioner before beginning any workout or fat reduction system and to stop in case you experience pain. Make sure to stretch before and as soon as you finish your workout to maintain flexibility and prevent injury.

Stair Stepper Varieties
There are essentially two styles of stair steppers. Most steppers have two pedals that move with a smooth up and down motion as you step, simulating the action of going up stairs. In many machines one pedal moves up when the other is pushed down. However, machines which supply independent action provide more intensity, increasing cardiovascular benefits and weight loss. The next kind of stair stepper, called a stepmill, is configured similar to an escalator, with stairs that move down as you simulate climbing upwards. This type of machine combines the rewards of walking upon a treadmill with the increased muscle toning results of acting against gravity.

Benefits of Stair Stepper Exercise
Both of these sorts of steppers work the glutes, quads, hamstrings and calves. Exercising these large muscle groups maximizes calorie consumption and fat utilization. This equipment will provide weight-bearing exercise, which is certainly thought to maximize bone density and lower bone loss in addition to providing aerobic benefits. Due to this muscle toning effect, stair steppers also make great cross-training machines. Either type of stair machine presents a low impact workout that minimizes joint and bone strain, especially good if you are dealing with an injury. However, improper technique can put strain on the knees, so caution should really be used in the event that you have knee problems.

Good form is necessary when using a stair climber to keep free of injury and maximize effectiveness. Holding the handles too tightly or leaning too far forward throughout your stride will significantly reduce the fat burning advantages of your routine. Here's the best way to use this type of exercise machine:

€ Hold the handles lightly. If you find that you want to hold tightly to maintain your stride, reduce your speed to some more comfortable pace.
€ Stand with the hips slightly forward, rather than keeping your back perfectly vertical. This slight incline will help prevent injury and strain to the knees and back.
€ Keep your stride even and your steps long, rather than just taking short quick steps, to prevent overworking your calves.
€ Keep the entire foot upon the pedal to make certain the main target stays on your thighs rather than your calves.