Aerobic steppers are the perfect at-home workout tool to improve your cardiovascular system.
We have reviewed and compared the best aerobic steps so you can work out safely without slipping. Aerobic steppers have been used in many kinds of workouts. They are great for cardio workouts. They also improve your leg strength and balance.
Aerobic steppers first came about in fitness history when people wanted a simple and inexpensive tool for getting their heart rate up and breaking a sweat.
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How Step Platforms Workout Your Body
Aerobic steppers help improve overall fitness. You set them up on the ground in front of you and step up and down at a pace that feels comfortable for you. They generally come with risers so that you can make them lower or higher based on your desired intensity.
They improve your cardiovascular system by increasing your heart rate. They are also perfect for gaining muscular strength in your legs, ankles, and calves.
Aerobic Step Platforms Compared
Image | Product | Length | Height Levels | Weight Capacity | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Reebok Original | 40 inches | 6, 8, or 10 inch | 242 lbs | ||
Best Choice Products | 43 inches | 4, 6, or 8 inch | 500 lbs | ||
Stamina | 27 inches | 4 or 6 inch | 300 lbs | ||
Reebok Professional | 43.5 inches | 7.87 or 14 inch | 330 lbs | ||
GOPLUS | 43 inches | 4.3, 6.3, or 8.3 inch | 500 lbs | ||
KLB Sport | 31 inches | 4, 6, or 8 inch | 550 lbs | ||
Giantex | 31 inches | 4, 6, or 8 inch | 550 lbs | ||
The Step Original | 28.5 inches | 4, 6, or 8 inch | 275 lbs (400 with risers) | ||
Tone Fitness | 27 inches | 4 or 6 inch | 300 lbs |
5 Aerobic Stepper Benefits
- 1Portable and Can Be Used Anywhere
One of the positive things about steppers is that, unlike treadmills or other bulky equipment, you can take them with you anywhere that you go. They are lightweight and portable so you can quickly pack it up and take it wherever you might need it or workout in the comfort of your own home. - 2Increasing Your Heart Rate and Blood Circulation
One of the many benefits of this easy workout tool is that they increase your heart rate and get your blood flowing. Many people may work office jobs during the day, which means that they are sedentary all day. Aerobic steps are perfect for getting your heart rate up so you can burn some extra calories. - 3Strengthen Your Muscles
Not only do aerobic steps help increase your heart rate, but they also help strengthen your muscles. They work your overall body by engaging your core. They also provide you with a stable platform for strengthening your leg muscles and calves. - 4Burning Calories
There are many benefits to exercising, but many people engage in fitness routines simply to burn calories and lose weight. If burning calories is your goal, then aerobic platforms can certainly help with that. They engage your whole body, so burning calories becomes much easier. - 5Reduce Stress
It is no secret that exercising can reduce stress. By getting your endorphins flowing, your body is capable of relaxing. Step platforms can help reduce stress on your body as well. Going for a jog around the track can be great for burning calories, but it can also be hard on your knees and joints. With steppers, you can reduce the tension placed on your hips and knee joints by simply stepping up and down on the box.
What to Look for Before Purchasing an Aerobic Stepper
Slip Resistant Surface
One of the major considerations for step up boxes is if they have a slip resistance surface for you to place your feet. You don't want to have to worry about slipping and hurting yourself during a workout. The most important thing during a workout is remaining safe.
Sturdy Body and Base
Every good step up box needs to have a firmly planted base. It needs to be sturdy enough to withstand a grueling cardio workout. Your stepper also needs to have broad support to hold your weight. The risers that come with your box also need to be able to connect to each other well. A great step will be durable and low maintenance.
Adjustable Heights
You should be able to raise the box to increase the intensity of your workout. The higher you have to step up, the more intense the muscular intensity of your workout will be. You can also make the box lower so that you will be able to step more quickly. That will increase your heart rate immensely.
Risers
Another feature of step up boxes is that they come with risers. Risers go hand in hand with raising the height of the step up box. They allow you to customize your workout to your desired intensity. Usually, aerobic steps will come with three risers. You can customize your step up box by placing the risers under the box on each side.
Length
The overall length of your step up box is something to keep in mind. The length will largely depend on what you would like to do. If you plan to use it for cardio workouts, then you may want additional length. If you plan to perform any crossover steps, then you will need more space to do so.
Weight Capacity
When using your new exercise tool, you want to ensure that the weight capacity can stand up to whatever type of routine you would like to do. Many steppers suggest a maximum weight, so keep this in mind when shopping for a step box. You want the box to withstand your weight and any additional impact movements that you perform.
Materials
Step up boxes come in many different types of materials. The inexpensive and durable ones are generally made of high-quality plastic. They are often very durable and can withstand movements and impact. Some other types of boxes are made of fiberglass or metal. They are slightly heavier but lasting in their design.
Price and Warranty
When it comes to shopping for something new, everyone has a budget in mind. Steppers are generally relatively inexpensive. There are many different price points to keep in mind. You can choose a nice step box at a low cost. Keep in mind; some more expensive step boxes might be made up of different materials.
Another factor to consider is the warranty that comes with your step. If anything happens to the box when you receive it, you might want to have a warranty so you can exchange it for free.
9 Best Aerobic Steppers Reviewed
1. Reebok Original
Number of Risers | 2 |
Max Weight Limit | 242 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 6, 8, or 10 inch |
Platform Length | 40 inches |
Warranty | Yes |
This model has been an integral part of many gyms and group fitness classes for years. Reebok has been creating fantastic gym equipment for many years, and the Original Aerobic Step is no exception. It can be a unique addition to any exercise routine. This step up box also has a weight capacity of 242 lbs.
This unit has three different heights that will suit any workout. You can adjust the step box to heights of 3, 6, or 10 inches. It comes with a non-slip bubble surface for natural traction during workouts. As opposed to typical risers that you stack on top of each other, the Reebok Original has only one set of risers. You change the height of the box by changing the position of the riser. It allows for fewer pieces to worry about.
2. Best Choice Products
Number of Risers | 4 |
Max Weight Limit | 500 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 4, 6, or 8 inch |
Platform Length | 43 inches |
Warranty | Yes |
This model is more of a traditional style platform used for group exercise classes worldwide. It gets the job done when you need a simple workout tool for all purposes in the gym. It has a standard weight capacity of 500 lbs.
This aerobic step is one of the originals. It comes with four risers, but you can purchase more to increase the height for added intensity. It is great for cardio and plyometric training regimens. It can be adjusted to 4, 6, and 8 inches with the set of risers included. The Best Choice step is made from high-quality materials for the perfect combination of lightweight durability.
It also comes with a completely non-slip surface for easily tackling every fitness move. Most of the users found this product to be durable even under heavy weightlifting conditions. One customer from the Best Choice product site noted that "Very few steps can hold weight to deadlift… This supports 500 lbs."
3. Stamina
Number of Risers | 4 |
Max Weight Limit | 300 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 4 or 6 inch |
Platform Length | 27 inches |
Warranty | Yes, 30 days |
This model is a classic one that is set up for the perfect workout, whether using it on an incline or flat. It is great for low impact workouts from the comfort of your home. You can easily target specific muscle groups to tone up troublesome areas.
It comes with four risers to adjust the exercise box from 4 to 6 inches. It also features a slip-resistant surface to keep you balanced throughout your step routine. It is made of durable PVC, which is exceptionally lightweight. You can take this box anywhere that you go. It also comes with a workout DVD, which makes it unique in this category.
This model is ideal for people who are looking for a tool to use during low impact exercises. It is perfect for seniors or people who are recovering from an injury. Many customers loved the sturdy design and grip on the surface.
4. Reebok Professional
Number of Risers | 2 |
Max Weight Limit | 330 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 7.87 or 14 inch |
Platform Length | 43.5 inches |
Warranty | Yes |
This model is the more advanced model of the previously reviewed Reebok unit. While the products are similar in their design, this one is more of a full workout bench. It is ideal for users who are looking for a workout tool that will allow them to use a flat, incline, or decline surface.
The Reebok Professional allows for so many different exercise options. It includes a storage compartment for stowing away additional equipment. It also features clips on either side to attach resistance bands for various routines. It also has the same durable slip-resistant surface as the lower level Reebok step model.
Many users found this product to be versatile with the ability to adjust the seat back into a bench. It allowed for use with dumbbells for strength and resistance training. Most reviewers agreed on the product's versatility.
5. GOPLUS
Number of Risers | 4 |
Max Weight Limit | 500 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 4.3, 6.3, or 8.3 inch |
Platform Length | 43 inches |
Warranty | Yes |
Another one of the traditional style step up boxes, GOPLUS has created a fabulous product for exercising at home. This unit is made out of durable, recyclable polyethylene. It is ideal for carrying from your home to the gym due to its lightweight design. It is also capable of holding up to 500 lbs.
It features a non-slip surface with shock-absorbing risers that allow for jumping and stepping as much as you desire. It comes with four risers that can adjust the height of the box from 4.3, 6.3, and 8.3 inches. It also boasts multiple slip-resistant feet pads, which keep it in place on any surface.
6. KLB Sport
Number of Risers | 4 |
Max Weight Limit | 550 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 4, 6, or 8 inch |
Platform Length | 31 inches |
Warranty | Yes, 1 year |
This model is slightly more compact than some of our other reviewed products, but it is still perfect for stepping regimens. We noticed that KLB Sports stepper also comes with four risers and four additional rubber feet for traction.
It is made of durable plastic that makes for a lightweight tool. It also features a non-slip surface to keep your feet planted while you work through your fitness routine. It also features a shock-absorbing base that will help with coordination. This model also comes with a slightly shorter base, which makes it fantastic for carrying from place to place.
7. Giantex
Number of Risers | 6 |
Max Weight Limit | 550 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 4, 6, or 8 inch |
Platform Length | 31 inches |
Warranty | Yes, 30 days |
This model features a blend of durable and slip-resistant materials. It is one of the most durable that we have reviewed thus far. It features ABS material in its construction, which allows for impact-resistant training. It can be used in any environment, such as in your home or outside at the park.
It also features three different height settings from 4, 6, or 8 inches. It gives you true versatility for adjusting the intensity of your workouts. It can also withstand up to 550 lbs! You can do high impact activities, such as jumping as well. Giantex also incorporated a honeycomb design into the slip-resistant surface. It allows you to have a perfect grip in all conditions. It is slightly shorter than the other products we have reviewed, which makes it easier to carry around.
8. The Step Original
Number of Risers | 4 |
Max Weight Limit | 275 lbs (400 with risers) |
Adjustable Height Levels | 4, 6, or 8 inch |
Platform Length | 28.5 inches |
Warranty | Yes, 90 days |
This product is truly one of the first and foremost original step up boxes on the market. There is a reason it is called The Step Original. It has made an appearance in almost all gyms across the world, such as in group classes or near the free weights.
It comes with four risers so that you can adjust the height to the standard 4, 6, or 8 inches. The platform is made of high-density polyethylene, which is lightweight and durable. It also features non-skid feet pads on the base to keep the platform in place. It comes in the standard circuit size of 28.5 inches across. It is easy to carry around wherever you go.
9. Tone Fitness
Number of Risers | 2 |
Max Weight Limit | 300 lbs |
Adjustable Height Levels | 4 or 6 inch |
Platform Length | 27 inches |
Warranty | Yes, 30 days |
Like many of the steps that we have reviewed, this unit is ideal for low impact fitness routines. It helps strengthen muscles and shred body fat. Tone Fitness came up with a brilliant design where you can store the extra risers underneath the stepper when not in use. It is a genuinely space-saving design, especially if you are using it in your home.
It also comes with a slip-resistant surface that is capable of withstanding water or sweat from strenuous workouts. It is adjustable from 4 to 6 inches in height. It also comes with a workout chart to assist you in learning a few new exercises.
Step Aerobics for Seniors
Seniors have a specific set of needs when it comes to step up boxes. Usually, seniors require low impact exercises to help them regain strength. They may also have a need for tending to an injury.
Steppers are perfect for seniors since they come with adjustable heights. It makes it easier to make improvements. There are many exercises that they can do to improve their mobility, such as simple step ups, lunges, or stretches.
Mini steppers are also a suitable option for many seniors, as some of these products can be used while sitting down. They provide many benefits for those who sit long hours at a desk, as well.
Low Impact Cardio Exercises at Home
At home, exercising can be inexpensive and rewarding. There are many different low impact steps you can accomplish at home with a stepper. These exercises include high knees, lunges, or crossover stepping. All of these can be done with a step box.
On the other hand, you don't need any equipment to get started with at-home fitness. You can do squat jumps, lunges, and push-ups without any equipment at all. These are perfect for anyone who is looking to get into fitness but doesn't want to purchase any tools yet.
Step Platform Workout Exercises
In this section, we will discuss some simple exercises that you can easily follow. For your lower body, you can do balance lunges. For this exercise, you start by standing so that your step up box is behind you. Place one foot up onto the box so that you are standing on one leg. Then, you lower your body to the floor and back up again.
For your upper body, you can do tricep dips. Start with your step up box behind you. Sit on the floor and place the palms of your hands on your step up box. You should be holding your bottom off of the floor. Lower yourself down and back up again using your arms.
People also Ask (FAQs)
What muscles of the body does an aerobic stepper target?
It can target all muscle groups depending on the exercises that you do. You can engage your core by doing rigorous steps. You can incorporate upper or lower body routines as well.
What do I need to think about when maintaining these machines?
These machines are low maintenance. You can use a damp cloth to keep them clean.
Do I need to consult a doctor before using an aerobic stepper?
Since these machines are low impact, you do not need to consult a physician unless you have a preexisting injury.
Should pregnant women use these to workout?
Yes. Aerobic steppers are ideal for low impact exercises, which are suitable for pregnant women.
Can step platforms help with weight loss?
Yes. Step platforms can help you burn calories and lose weight.
How many calories do you burn in 30 minutes of step aerobics?
Depending on your weight and intensity, you can burn between 165 and 244 calories.
Conclusion
Aerobic steppers are excellent tools for burning calories and gaining strength. We have reviewed the top choices on the market. In our opinion, the best option of this roundup is the Reebok Original Step. We liked that you could adjust the risers to different positions as opposed to just stacking them to gain height.