The Best Mini Steppers
Looking for a way to keep moving at home without taking up too much space in your home? A mini stepper could be your perfect fit. These little devices provide a compact cardio outlet, as well as strengthening to various muscle groups. They also come with a variety of innovative features, ranging from live workout apps to built-in resistance bands. Read on to discover which version is right for you.
What to Look For
When we were looking for the best mini steppers for at-home workouts, we focused on three main aspects: Is it affordable? Does it provide a variety of fitness opportunities? Is it designed to last through continued use? We were first impressed by the Sunny Health and Fitness product for its smooth movements and inclusion of resistance bands. We also liked the Women’s Health Men’s Health stepper for its Bluetooth connectivity and access to live and on-demand mini-stepper classes. You can learn more about both of these devices, along with our other favorites, on the list below.
Sunny Health and Fitness Resistance Mini Stepper
Full body fitness
Bring the gym into your home with this high-quality resistance band and mini stepper combination from Sunny Health and Fitness. The hydraulic system provides a smooth, quiet ride that engages more than 20 muscles in a low-impact fashion. The height settings are adjustable to ensure every user can step comfortably. An LCD screen on the base tracks step count, resistance band reps, overall time, and calories burned so you can have an insight into your fitness improvements.
Pros:
- Affordably priced
- Easy to use — just hop on and start stepping
- Larger-than-average foot pedals
- Comes pre-assembled with the required battery included
- Resistance bands have comfortable, padded handles
Cons:
- No Bluetooth connectivity for online workout classes
BalanceFrom Adjustable Mini Stepper
Step your size
This mini stepper is designed with users of all sizes in mind. It’s easy to adjust the height, so you don’t have to take steps that are too small or too large for your height. The footplates are innovatively designed to keep your grip at all times. And the hydraulic drive system makes for smooth stepping every time. The entire machine weighs just 15 pounds, so it’s easy to move around the house as needed.
Pros:
- The front knob allows for easy height adjustments
- Resistance bands are removable
- Small screen measures time, steps, and calories burned
- Made with a durable steel frame
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Doesn’t track resistance band reps for you
Women’s Health Men’s Health Smart Mini Stepper
Group exercise
This mini stepper offers the unique benefit of Bluetooth connectivity, so you can log onto live or on-demand workout classes via the MyCloudFitness app. The instructor on your phone, tablet or television screen will be using the same machine as you, making it easy to get the most out of every exercise session. And for the days you want to move by yourself, the built-in LCD screen tracks steps, time, and total calories.
Pros:
- Resistance bands included
- The base can be locked and used as an upper-body workout platform
- Adjust step size based on height or preferred workout intensity
- Simple assembly process
- Heavier and sturdier than moat mini steppers
Cons:
- Higher price point
SportsRoyals At Home Mini Stepper
Built better
This mini stepper comes with a 330-pound weight limit, making it much sturdier than the average competitor. It also offers a twist-style movement, which targets more lower body muscles than straight-forward steppers. The included resistance bands are optional and removable. The hydraulic drive system and spring action make for a comfortable and quiet ride. And the pedals are not only covered in non-slip material but they’re also padded for additional joint support.
Pros:
- LCD screen displays time, miles moved, steps taken, and calories burned
- Pedals are larger than average
- V-shaped frame for added durability
- Arrives fully assembled
- Also available with a handle
Cons:
- The machine needs to be given a break every 20 minutes
Sunny Health and Fitness Handled Mini Stepper
Hold on tight
This mini stepper comes with a full handle, making it easier for beginners to balance on. It offers twist-style stepping to target as many muscle groups as possible. The stepping height is adjustable for users of various heights, as well as for varied levels of difficulty. The base is strengthened to prevent tipping, which allows you to work harder without worrying about keeping yourself centered the entire time. Only one AAA battery is required, which is included with your purchase.
Pros:
- Handle height is adjustable
- Comfortable handle padding
- The tracking screen is at reading level instead of by your feet
- Non-slip pedals
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Takes up more space than the handleless designs
Frequently Asked Questions
Which muscle groups do mini steppers target?
Mini steppers target the core and lower body as you move your legs and engage your stomach muscles for balance. You can also include your upper body by using the commonly-attached resistance bands. And for more glute action, consider a twist-style mini stepper.
Can mini steppers be used at all fitness levels?
Yes, these devices are ideal for beginners and well-versed athletes alike. They serve as an easy way to get cardio in, as well as to strengthen the muscle groups mentioned above. Your time and pace can be adjusted to meet you where you’re at in your exercise journey.
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