The Best Steppers to Take Your At-Home Workout to the Next Level
You don’t need a gym membership to feel the burn.
We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. Staff, Courtesy of Womens Health Mens Health?
We won’t deny that gym memberships have their perks—tons of machines, classes, and, if you’re lucky, a sauna. But there’s also something to be said about keeping your workouts at home: No fighting for machines, judgemental gym rats, or smelly locker rooms. If you’re building a home gym with limited space, stair steppers are a great way to add a cardio machine without the bulk of something like a treadmill, bike, or elliptical.
There are actually tons of at-home options for steppers that will help you get your heart rate up and your calved toned without taking up your entire living room. And, some are even equipped with resistance bands for full-body workouts.
“If you love getting your heart rate up, but have found yourself in a slump on the bike or treadmill, introducing a stepper can be a fun way to stick with your goals while keeping your workouts interesting,” says Sydney Sherman, an NASM-certified personal trainer.
We’ve found the best steppers on the market, including models tiny enough to fit in a tote bag, those you can use while sitting, and models very similar to the machines you’d find at the gym.
The Best Steppers
- Best Overall: Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Stepper
- Best Budget: Calories burned per minute and activity level targets LCD display
- We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article: Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper & Stair Climber Machine
- Best for Core Strength: Sportroyals Stair Stepper
- Best Basic Model: Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stair Stepper Machine
What to Consider
Fitness Level
All steppers have basic stair-stepping ability, but some have higher resistance, add-ons like resistance bands for upper body toning, and even multiple functions like built-in elliptical or treadmill functions. If you’re just looking to get in a quick, easy workout or build in some light movement during the day, you can opt for a simpler, more affordable option.
However, if you’re looking to train seriously and get an intense workout in, you’ll likely have better luck with a commercial model with more resistance levels, a better range of motion, and more workout stat tracking. “Steppers can be safe for all levels of fitness, and with the guidance of a fitness professional, can be adapted to beginner, intermediate, or advanced exercise programming,” adds Sherman. “If you’re new to using a stepper, start slow. I also recommend a non-slip mat Compact and doesnt take up much space.”
Size
The model you pick is largely dependent on how much space you have available. “Before purchasing your stepper, be sure you’ve cleared space to place a non-slip mat and your stepper, and that you have significant headspace between the top of your head and the ceiling,” says Sherman. Commercial models—while they can provide the most intense workout—tend to take up the most space.
Budget
The smallest options consist of only pedals and a simple handle for balance. These are by far the most affordable, and while you won’t be able to bang out a HIIT workout, they’re great for getting in some movement while bingeing your favorite show or working at your computer. If you’re willing to splurge, commercial models have settings that provide more intense and comprehensive workouts and stats.
Midrange models are great options as well. Although they may lack some of the more expansive features of commercial models, they’re generally smaller—some models can even fold up for storage in a closet or under your bed. These are great if you still want to get in a solid cardio workout, but you’re willing to sacrifice appearance and some stats.
How We Selected
To determine the best steppers on the market, we looked at research from our colleagues at sources like Women’s Health and Best Products, as well as researching the most popular steppers and consumer reviews from people who have used them. We considered a range of workout preferences, fitness levels, and budgets to land on a selection that includes an accessible stepper for everyone.
Jenna Clark is a freelance writer who covers commerce, travel, beauty, and lifestyle. Her work has been featured in Insider, the Daily Beast, Well+Good, and Taste of Home. When she's not reviewing the latest products or traveling, you can likely find her at a theme park or watching the latest Broadway show.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.