Steppers

By on December 1st, 2008

If you are deciding what exercise equipment is best for you the stepper may enter the equation. These great machines are used for cross-training, achieving and maintaining good blood pressure, rehabilitation after and injury or surgery and to lose weight. It is recommended that if you use this machine, you dedicate 20 minutes at least 3 times per week.

Steppers fall into two different categories; those that are not mechanized and those that are. The machines that are not mechanized use pistons to control the pressure and resistance. Because the non-mechanized machines cannot go fast, they cannot be considered for aerobic workouts. The mechanized steppers have two types; the Pedal steppers which are the most common and can be either linked pedal action or independent pedal action. Most of the mechanized machines have the ability for the user to control the speed, distance, time and intensity of their workout. The Staircase style, with is the other form of mechanized steppers also have settings for speed, distance, time and intensity.

Many of the steppers have heart rate monitors and other equipment to tell you how you are doing in your work out. Often this is just the encouragement someone needs to keep up the routine. Steppers can get boring for some, so you can listen to music or perhaps watch television while you are exercising to help keep your mind occupied. As with any exercise routine, pick a schedule and stick with it! It is the consistent regularity of the routine that has the best effect on the body.

When using the stepper, maintain good posture and stand up straight. Too much slouching can lead to back strain. Let your legs do all of the work while on the stepper. Take big steps and only use the handrail for light support. Do not lean on the handrail. Remember that steppers are not only good for losing weight and creating a good cardio workout, they can also help reduce the risks of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and colon cancer. Regular exercise also helps reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Blood flow and circulation are also increased which has an overall good effect on the body.

Many people use the steppers at gyms but some have their own. A wonderful thing about a stepper is that you can use them on your own schedule and in all kinds of weather. With regular use of the stepper, you will increase your resistance and build up muscle; you may be able to increase the amount of time you spend on the machine as a result of regular use. Always get a doctors advice for using any exercise equipment if you have any health conditions or think you may have health conditions. Your doctor can also give you a better idea at what rate to start and how to build your routine. Steppers should not be used around small children as they can get their fingers caught in the moving parts. Also keep the steppers away from all objects so you can easily enter and exit the machine.

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