5 Stair Climber Benefits That Will Instantly Get You To Want To Use The Machine

There is probably not a soul in the world who would say that cardio does not get old fast! Let's face it - the routine can get old quite fast; having treadmills, rowers, and stationary bikes being a slightly outdated trend. With many gyms all over the country investing in new equipment, the idea of "what is old is new" has surely been taking over. Step-machines and stair-climbers have been popping-up effectively in the fitness world, many of which promote an incredible amount of benefits that prove that these machines should never have gone out of style. 

What is a Stair Climber?

In understanding the benefits of a stair-climber, it is first important to know exactly what a stair-climber is. The best way to describe a stair climber is by saying that it is like an escalator. There are handrails to keep you stable as you climb a mini-revolving staircase. What is nice about stair-climbers is the constant, never-ending feel of the ascent. You definitely would not have to turn completely around once you reach the top. 

It is also worth noting that there are many different kinds of stair-climbers. For example, there are the stairclimber, StairMasters, and step-mills - just to name a few. While many do focus on the escalator design, some come with two pedals that stimulate the stair-climbing motion. Regardless of the machine, here are the five amazing benefit that will instantly get you to want to use the machine:

Benefit of Using A Stair Climber #1: A Great Workout For Your Glutes and Quads

A great benefit of a stair-climber is the amazing workout you will get for your quads and glutes. While many exercises such as squats, running, and cycling do just that, the stair-climber takes things to a whole new level. A stair-climber targets your glutes, quads, abdominals, and hips while providing a routine that can help in burning fat. According to Chris Falcon, the founder of Reactive Performance Enhancement Center, "using the StairMaster is unique in that you must push against gravity throughout a larger range of motion than most other pieces of cardiovascular equipment. That increased degree of knee and hip flexion places a greater demand on the quads and glutes." 

Benefit of Using A Stair Climber #2: Maximizes Cardio Efforts

Stair-climbers are a powerhouse when it comes to your cardio workout. Stair-climbers allow you to rapidly increase your heart rate, while also improving and kickstarting your cardiovascular system. Within your workout, you will burn calories quicker, while also speeding up the oxygen distribution to your muscles. When added to your workout routine, a stairclimber will actually allow your muscles to receive more oxygen-enriched blood. Steppers and stairclimbers also can help improve cardiovascular endurance that will help you push yourself further within your workouts or everyday activities. Good exercises to try on a stairclimber are the following:

1. Squats: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, then start the machine at a slow speed. Squat down then spring up onto the next stair, making sure you bend your knees as you land. Keep your hands lightly on the handrails to help in keeping your balance. 
2. Crossover steps: Simply step up with your right foot placing it on the next step where your left foot would normally land. Then step up with your left foot placing it on the next step where your right foot would normally land. To keep your balance and for safety purposes, keep your hands lightly on the handrails throughout.

Benefit of Using A Stair Climber #3: Increase Your Core

Besides all the benefits to your glutes and quads, a stairclimber is an excellent workout for your core. Think about it - have you ever had to walk up to a fifth or sixth-story walkup? By at least your fourth-story, you are probably a little tired and your breathing may become heavier. If you find yourself out of breath and you start to bend over, it may actually be rather beneficial for you to try the stairclimber. Making sure you keep your core aligned and your back upright, allowing for everything to stay engaged throughout the workout. This will strengthen your back, abdominals, and obliques. 

Stairclimbers are a great workout for any novice fitness enthusiast. Stair climbing is low impact, that allows for a joint-friendly natural movement. Your body stays in contact for most of the workout, with the weight distribution being almost instantly transferred. This machine is rather easy for any level of people but does not hinder effectiveness or intensity. The machine can also help promote bone strength and enhance bone density. 

Stairclimbers are an essential workout in losing weight and burning calories. Research has found that taking at least 10 steps on a stair climber is as effective as taking 38 steps while on ground level - which means on a treadmill too! This means that a stairclimber is almost 4x more effective as a treadmill or running. The amount of calories you burn depends on how much you weight - the more resistance, the more calories you will lose. Doing about 20 minutes or working out on a stairclimber will engage about 19 minutes of your fat-burning zone that other exercises, such as squats, do not. 

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