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Best stair steppers of 2024
This content should not be considered medical advice. The information provided is not meant to diagnose or treat any health conditions. Consult with your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine or taking any new supplements.
When it comes to cardiovascular exercise, there is no shortage of choices for home gym owners. From treadmills to rowers and ski ergs to stationary bikes, the options are endless. However, there is one machine that many fail to consider, which I personally think is a huge oversight: the stair stepper. There is something uniquely exhilarating (and enticing) about stair stepper machines. These simple but incredibly versatile machines offer challenging, low-impact cardio workouts without compromising the integrity of your joint health.
Anyone on the hunt for a cardio machine would be remiss to overlook home gym stair steppers. As with every piece of gym equipment today, the number of options on the market can be overwhelming. You can find stair steppers for home gyms that vary in size, features, functionality and price. The sheer volume of choices can be overwhelming, so to help you out, we have taken the stress out of this process. In this article, you will find our final compilation of top-notch stair climbers, highlighting their best specs as well as things to consider.
Stair steppers overview
While stair steppers have been in existence for nearly three decades, their popularity has significantly risen in recent years. Modern stair steppers surpass the conventional, mundane machines of the past. A multitude of them now incorporate interactive virtual training, offering users diverse and entertaining home workout sessions.
However, the world of home gym stair steppers is more than meets the eye. The broader category of stair steppers encompasses several types of machines that differ greatly from the large, bulky and cumbersome machine you may be envisioning. With options ranging from vertical climbers to elliptical hybrids, many of today’s best stair stepper machines will not only elevate your heart rate and up your cardio game but can be done without monopolizing your entire living room.
Stair steppers are a solid, low-impact alternative to running and other high-impact exercises. Research has associated stair climbing with many benefits, including improved aerobic capacity, positive muscular adaptations, lower body weight and lower blood pressure. Additionally, those suffering from chronic back pain will be pleased to hear that using a stair stepper may actually decrease their pain level.
How we chose the best stair steppers
Unfortunately, as a runner, I have experienced many injuries, forcing me to replace my typical running with lower-impact cardio alternatives. During these recovery periods (or really whenever I did not feel like running), I enjoyed hopping on different stair steppers at my gym. Drawing off my experience, I began my search for the best home gym stair steppers. Scouring the internet for real user reviews, I narrowed down my list, concentrating on several key factors: durability, cost and size/footprint.
- Durability: It is really all about finding quality equipment and making sure you know that any piece of equipment you are investing in will not break down.
- Cost: I included a variety of price points in this list to make sure there is a stair climber option for every budget
- Size/footprint: Not everyone has the space for a large, commercial-grade stepper so I made sure this list included machines of various sizes.
Top stair steppers
- Best overall: NordicTrack FS10i
- Best vertical climber: CLMBR Connected 02
- Best hybrid: ProForm HIIT H14
- Best budget: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E3919
- Best for small spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
Best overall stair stepper: NordicTrack FS10i
- 10-inch Smart HD Touchscreen
- Up to a 10 percent incline and 24 levels of digital resistance
- 32-inch adjustable stride
About NordicTrack FS10i
Whether you are looking to glide, step or run for your next cardio adventure, the NordicTrack FS10i has you covered. This versatile three-in-one machine offers the flexibility to work as either a treadmill, elliptical, or stair-stepping machine, making it especially attractive to anyone who likes to keep their workouts varied. What’s more, this multifunctional machine has a very strong immersive training experience via the iFit interactive training platform.
A 30-day membership to iFIT is included with your purchase, which grants you access to a plethora of live and on-demand workout programs. It features a 10-inch smart HD touchscreen that tilts, a 20-watt sound array and Bluetooth audio capabilities, taking the immersive training experience up a notch. The FS10i also has automatic trainer controls, which means when taking a class, the trainer adjusts the 24 levels of digital resistance and up to 10 percent incline for a hands-free training session.
The FS10i features a 30-pound flywheel, a 375-pound user weight capacity and a long 32-inch auto-adjustable stride, which means it can accommodate a wide range of user heights and weights. Other conveniences include a water bottle holder, front transport wheels and SoftTouch upper body grips.
Why we like it
- High-tech training options
- Sturdy frame and impressive construction
- Can be used to glide, run or step
What to consider
- Expensive
- Hard to move around
- Requires a membership after 30 days
Best vertical climber stair stepper: CLMBR Connected 02
- Space-saving design intended to fit most indoor spaces
- Immersive training experience with a 21-inch monitor
- Delivers a full-body workout
About CLMBR Connected 02
Uniquely different from your run-of-the-mill stepper is the CLMBR—a vertical stepper that combines your upper and lower body to deliver low-impact but high-intensity workouts. Standing just over seven feet tall, the CLMBR uses foot pedals to get your legs moving and several handle options closely mimic rock climbing more so than walking up stairs. In fact, thanks to the various handle options, users can target different muscle groups.
Those attracted to high-tech machines will likely be impressed with the CLMBR’s 21-inch adjustable touchscreen and interactive training opportunities found on the CLMBR app. A membership to CLMBR unlocks access to thousands of workouts led by world-class guides who can automatically control the workout so you can concentrate on staying in the zone. Classes offered include climbing, HIIT and strength workouts designed to provide something for everyone, regardless of their fitness level.
Just as impressive as the high-tech capabilities is the CLMBR’s construction. With a floor space requirement of only 35 inches by 32 inches, the biggest concern one should have is ceiling height. It is recommended to have a ceiling height of at least 8 feet, which is fairly typical in most indoor spaces.
The CLMBR's frame also distinguishes it from other vertical climbers. Unlike the traditional design found in other climbers, the CLMBR features two vertical beams on either side during use. This unique structure eliminates the need to straddle the frame while operating the handles, pedals, and console. According to the manufacturer, this design evenly distributes the user’s load. The pedals are engineered to fit almost any foot size and are twice as large as the previous model.
For anyone seeking a truly intense cardio session, the CLMBR may be just for you. According to the company, these machines provide up to 60 percent greater efficiency over rowing or cycling workouts and the ability to burn up to 650 calories in just 30 minutes.
Sounds amazing, right? Here is the catch: the CLMBR is a hefty financial investment that may be unattainable to a lot of potential buyers.
Why we like it
- Unique and effective full-body workout
- Compact
- Multiple handle options to target different muscles
What to consider
- It is expensive
- Membership is required to access classes
- One year warranty is disappointing
Best hybrid stair stepper: ProForm HIIT H14
- Combines upper-body punch-like movements with elliptical stepping
- 14-inch smart HD touchscreen that tilts and swivels
- 26 resistance levels and a 30-pound flywheel
About ProForm HIIT H14
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 distinguishes itself by its unique design, intensity and overall effectiveness as a hybrid machine. The ProForm HIIT H14 combines strong upper-body punching movements with an elliptical stepping path to effectively recruit multiple muscle groups, including, but not limited to, hamstrings, glutes, quads, shoulders, biceps and triceps. The result is a quick and effective, high-intensity workout.
Equipped with a 14-inch swivel HD touchscreen, the ProForm Pro HIIT H13 comes loaded with iFit, an immersive and subscription-based training platform. Included in your purchase of this machine is a 30-day family membership, providing access to a diverse library of workouts, global scenery, and a motivating community (post-trial, iFit renews at $39 per month for a family membership). If you are not interested in a subscription, the H14 houses 20 to 30 pre-programmed workouts that vary in both length and intensity. However, you will need WiFi to access these workouts.
Packed with conveniences, the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 includes oversized cushioned pedals, multifunctional handlebars targeting different upper body muscles, a cooling fan, dual Bluetooth speakers, front transport wheels, and a water bottle holder. The 30-pound flywheel, combined with 26 levels of resistance, enables any user to continually vary their intensity to keep things challenging.
Users rave over its smooth and quiet functioning. Combined with its compact footprint, the H14 is a solid choice for anyone limited by space.
Why we like it
- Quick and effective full-body workouts
- Low-impact
- Immersive training options
What to consider
- May be too challenging for some
- Assembly is reported to be difficult
- To fully enjoy the machine as its intended, you need a membership to iFit
Best budget stair stepper: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E3919
About Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919
The reality is that many of us looking to expand our home gym can’t spend thousands of dollars on one machine, so we seek one that breaks the bank. Enter the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E3919. This machine is not only a wallet-friendly option but also one that provides a lot of bang for its buck. Combining both a vertical and horizontal pedal path, the SF-E3919 has a shorter elliptical motion and a stronger climbing component, which results in workouts that work multiple muscle groups at once.
The SF-E3919 lacks the bells and whistles found on higher-end steppers but still comes with all the essentials you need for a great sweat session. It features a lighter 13-pound flywheel and eight levels of manually adjusted magnetic resistance. The SF-E3919 is equipped with a basic LCD monitor that displays all the key workout statistics you need to monitor your session. Pulse grips are situated on the stationary handlebars, though they are absent on the moving ones.
Looking for some sort of entertainment while stepping away? The SF-E3919 does include an integrated device holder, so you can easily place your smart device to ward off any boredom. In terms of additional conveniences, there is a water bottle holder and non-slip pedals, but not much more than that. Still, the SF-E3919 is a solid choice for anyone looking to keep costs down.
Why we like it
- Affordable
- Unique and compact design
- Provides a full-body workout
What to consider
- Lightweight flywheel
- Shorter stepping path is not ideal for tall users
- Warranty is lacking
Best for small spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
About Bowflex Max Trainer M6
Measuring just 46 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 64.2 inches high, the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is a high-quality option for anyone short on space. As one of Bowflex’s best-selling models, the M6 features 16 levels of resistance, a USB charging port, a water bottle holder, Bluetooth heart rate compatibility and multi-grip moving handles with pulse grips. What makes the M6 unique is its signature burn rate display. Throughout any workout, you can set activity level targets and visually ascertain how many calories you burn per minute and how far you are from reaching your goal.
The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 also comes with a digital fitness platform, JRNY, which provides a library of on-demand classes, real-time coaching and an option for personalized programming. This platform may not be as expansive as some competitors, but it comes at a more affordable price. Included in your purchase is a free full-year membership to JRNY. You simply need to download the app, use the conveniently located magnetic media rack to secure your smart device, and get moving.
One thing to note is that users report assembly as complex. Bowflex does offer in-home assembly for an additional fee, so if it is within your budget, you may want to take advantage of that.
Why we like it
- Compact
- HIIT workouts
- Continually monitor your progress on display
What to consider
- Assembly may be difficult
- Expensive
- Basic monitor
How to choose a stair stepper
When researching and selecting the best stair stepper for your home gym, there are a few factors you need to consider before making the investment. Here are the things to determine beforehand to ensure you are choosing the right product to meet your health and wellness goals.
- Size: Stair steppers come in all sizes and have the potential to be very large, so be sure to measure out the area you plan to house them in before narrowing down your list of potential step machines.
- Cost: Stair steppers can come with a hefty price tag, with some costing thousands and thousands of dollars. Like any big investment, it's crucial to carefully weigh the price and consider your budget before committing to a purchase. For many of these machines, you will also need to take into account both the initial cost of the machine and any potential additional expenses, such as subscriptions to associated fitness platforms.
- Features and preferences: Some stair steppers are extremely high-tech, with interactive training programs on fancy conveniences, whereas others are very basic and just serve to get the job done. Identify the features that are “must-have” ones to narrow down your list of options.
Methodology
To compile this list, our writers and editors reviewed top products on the market, compared specs and features and created a short list of the top stair steppers on the market. Then, we used product descriptions, reviews and user ratings to find the best stair steppers for each category. Note that we do not test every product but base our lists on our research, user reviews and expert opinions.
FAQ
Is it more effective to walk or use a stair stepper?
Most professionals agree that the use of a stair stepper will burn more calories and more effectively improve cardiovascular fitness. If these are your primary health goals, then a stair stepper is more effective.
Is 10 minutes on the stair stepper enough?
10 minutes on the stair stepper at a challenging level will undoubtedly elevate your heart rate. To make the most of the time, make it a HIIT workout to maximize the benefits of the shorter duration.
Are stair steppers hard on your knees?
While stair steppers are generally considered low impact, the repetitive motion will place some stress on the knees. Be sure to listen to your body and consult a medical professional if you have any concerns.
References
- Stair climbing offers significant cardiovascular and muscular benefits for heart patients. (2021, May 17). ScienceDaily. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/05/210517102635.htm
- Daily stair climbing is associated with decreased risk for the metabolic syndrome. (2021, May 14). NCBI. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8122558/
- Climbing Has a Positive Impact on Low Back Pain: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial. (n.d.). PubMed. Retrieved January 12, 2024, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26247548/
- Kesinger, J. (n.d.). Should I Choose Steps Over Stairs? Allina Health. Retrieved January 12, 2024, from https://www.allinahealth.org/healthysetgo/move/should-i-choose-steps-over-stairs
