Walking trainer at home - review of the best models with description of characteristics and cost

The step machine is one of the most popular machines that you can see in any gym. Its popularity can be explained by the fact that in the modern rhythm of life with sedentary work, we often lack walking, the benefits of which no one will argue. Some people prefer to work out in the gym, while others prefer to buy a step machine for home, which is quite convenient. The only difficult moment is the problem of choice.

What walking machines are there?

To begin with, it is worth noting that by using a walking machine at home or in the gym, you will provide yourself with the necessary amount of natural movement. Its use is primarily aimed at working the buttocks, legs, and thighs. Such sports equipment is purchased to strengthen muscles and lose weight. In addition, it helps:

strengthen the heart and blood vessels;
develop and stimulate the respiratory system;
relieve muscle tension;
increase immune defense and improve digestive processes;
activate the work of the abdominal and back muscles.

Due to different levels of load, it becomes possible not only to stretch your muscles and joints, but also to partially get rid of excess weight, and in the future - to gain muscle mass. In addition to certain muscle groups, the joints in the elbows and knees work while walking. Today you can buy a walking trainer in an online sports store with delivery by mail, but first, decide on a suitable design:

Nordic walking poles. It is the simplest version of a device that, during movement, increases the load on the upper body and at the same time increases energy consumption. These poles are similar to ski poles, but shorter. The tip has a durable tip that softens the force of impact on asphalt, ice, soil or snow.
Mini stepper. It is a simple platform with pedals, some modifications of which are equipped with additional devices for loading the back and arms. This in-situ walking machine is a very effective option for home workouts. The mini-stepper is divided into several subcategories: with dependent and independent pedal travel, with rotating parts. For weight loss, the last option is better, but... it imitates walking on stairs; it should be used with caution by people suffering from heart and vascular diseases. The simplest option is a mini-stepper with two dependent pedals, which cannot be used to adjust the load. There are versions with manual built-in expanders and with sticks, with side rotation, which provide an additional degree of stress on the arms.
Regular stepper. Dimensional, equipped with handrails to maintain balance or levers that can provide additional stress on the muscles of the arms and back. This also includes such a popular exercise machine as Nordic walking. The regular model is more effective than the mini version, but keep in mind that it is not suitable for small-sized housing. The stepper can be electromagnetic or mechanical. The first operates due to the magnetic resistance of the parts. Special sensors that are placed on the body are able to read various vital signs, and various functions will help you create an individual training plan. The mechanical version operates hydraulically. During an exercise, a person presses the pedal, resulting in compression of the cylinder. The latter is released when the weight is transferred to the second pedal. The simulator does not require an external power source and at the same time it is silent in operation.
Stair stepper. This design surpasses all others in its dimensions. Mostly designed for installation in spacious rooms. Modern simulators of this type have a multifunctional console with a built-in set of different training programs and a whole range of multimedia and fitness-oriented applications.
Treadmill for walking at home. An electric model of this design takes up a lot of space. If you choose a magnetic or mechanical option, you can save free space.
Elliptical trainer. According to its operating principle, it imitates fast running, which is more similar to skiing. It has a low degree of harmful effects on joints, making this equipment suitable for a wide range of users.

According to the classification by type of movement, stepping machines are:

Classic. They imitate walking on stairs as accurately as possible in terms of physiology and anatomy.
Balancing. They can additionally strengthen the abdominal muscles and develop coordination. During movement, the platform shifts the center of gravity of the body in different directions. The movements seem too complicated at first, but over time, as the user acquires dexterity, the user will be able to supplement walking with movements of the arms and legs - this provides additional load. Often a model in this category is known as a “rock and roll stepper”, because exercises on it are somewhat reminiscent of this active and energetic dance.
Rotary. Capable of loading the back, because During the training process, you are required to perform body turns. Exercises on this type of equipment are intense, and after just 10 minutes you can get a good load on different muscle groups, including the “breeches” area.

Interesting Facts

This is one of the most energy-intensive simulators. In a half-hour workout, you can burn 300 kcal or even more if you go fast or use interval training modes. You can burn up to 700 kcal in an hour. This exercise machine is suitable for those who are tired or do not want to run and for some reason cannot do other types of cardio exercise.

This simulator was invented in 1983 in the wake of the general craze for aerobics. It allowed you to spend 100 kcal more than slow jogging, so it quickly gained popularity.

The simulator in our country is called a ladder, stepmill or climber. It should not be confused with a stepper; the latter is a device with independent moving pedals.

Nordic walking trainer

Nordic walking poles help work the lower and upper body. Thanks to the support on special sticks, the back remains straight. In this case, an effective formation of a muscle corset occurs around the spine, which helps to unload the spinal discs. Due to this, their compression is reduced, resulting in improved nutrition of the cartilage tissue that covers the surface of the joints.

Trump Fitness

Tramp Fitness Nordic walking poles (telescopic) will help correct posture, strengthen the muscles of the legs and arms, reduce excess weight and maintain good shape without harm to health. The handle of the device is supplemented with a quick-release lanyard:

Model name: Tramp Fitness TRR-011;
price: 1699 RUR;
characteristics: length – 84-135 cm, sections – 2, material – aluminum Alu 60/61, tube diameter – 16/14 mm, pair weight – 520 g, height adjustment mechanism – internal spacer, handle made of cork with rubber;
pros: strength, workmanship, optimal size;
cons: no Anti-shock system, expensive.

Nordic Walker Extreme

Lightweight and durable, the Nordic Walker Extreme poles are a great option to improve your posture and health. They have an excellent design that will not leave you indifferent. A comfortable lanyard like a half-glove holds the hand while moving and helps relieve the muscles of the palm. Compared to other fixation systems, it does not chafe the skin. If necessary, it can be adjusted in width, making it suitable for both a small female hand and a large male hand wearing a fur glove. Walking long distances with such poles is a pleasure:

model name: Nordic Walker Extreme;
price: 1149 rub.;
characteristics: stick material – fiberglass, handles – cork composite/plastic, lanyard – half-glove, non-quick-release, color – black with blue/black with red, weight – 150 g, minimum and maximum height of the walker – 150 and 200 cm;
pluses: lightness, strength, shoes with Anti-Shock system, steel claws for moving on ice;
cons: more expensive than some analogues.

Ergoforce

Nordic walking poles Ergoforce E 0673 are two-section products made of durable and lightweight aluminum composition. The canes are equipped with an Anti-shock system, which helps reduce the impact load on the joints of the hands during training. Exercises can engage about 90% of the body's muscles. Energy expenditure increases by 46% compared to standard walking without poles. Training with them is great for correcting posture, developing coordination and a sense of balance:

model name: Ergoforce E 0673;
price: 599 rub.;
characteristics: length – 110-140 cm, material – aluminum alloy, strap – removable lanyard, handle – balsa wood, sections – 2, set weight – 600 g, there are carbide and rubber tips;
pluses: good grip, high-quality stop, optimal length for tall people, two types of tips, there is an Anti-Shock system;
cons: uncomfortable lanyard.

Execution technique

Initial position

Take a standing position on a step of a moving staircase;
If you are a beginner, grab the handrails with your hands and create a slight support that will help maintain balance but will not cause you to lean in one direction or another, for example, towards your more developed hand;
Tighten your stomach, straighten your back, but don’t pull your shoulders back too much;
Create a slight forward tilt of the body;
Place your working leg on a step higher, turn on the exercise machine, and start walking

Movement

Without removing your hands from the handrails, step as you would on a regular staircase;
Shift your weight to your right leg, then step onto the stairs, squeezing your hamstrings and glutes;
Take it up a notch;
Step again, but with the other foot;
Hold the handrails with your hands, breathe evenly and deeply;
Continue in the same spirit.

Attention

It is better to perform the exercise without significantly fixing your hands on the handrails. Light support is enough, if the athlete can maintain balance without it, that’s even better. Without support, the movement of the legs will be more natural than with it, so it is worth learning to walk in a simple, even style;
Keeping your back straight and not protruding your stomach are the main criteria for the effectiveness of movement in this exercise;
Do not push your knees in until they click; full extension at the joint is not anatomically suitable for most people and requires too much involvement in the work.

Overview of the staircase escalator from Matrix.

Treadmill

A treadmill, modern models of which are equipped with an electric motor, can be a good purchase. On sale in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other cities of the country you can find dozens of models in which you can adjust the angle of inclination, speed of movement, and choose a training program. Many treadmills have a heart rate sensor that measures your heart rate and a calculator that counts the number of calories burned.

Spirit

The Spirit Fitness XT285 Walking Trainer is a member of the XT Series that is designed for intensive use. A reliable motor is responsible for the movement of the web, which has overheating protection and a pre-cooling unit:

Model name: Spirit Fitness XT285;
price: RUB 107,990;
characteristics: dimensions - 144x193x89 cm, weight - 100 kg, engine power - up to 4 hp, user weight - up to 160 kg, shock absorption system - elastomer, running belt - 140x51 cm, pulse measurement - sensors + cardio belt, training programs - 8, LCD display – 7.5";
pros: reliable and foldable design, multifunctionality;
cons: high cost.

Proxima

If you are planning to order cheaper equipment, then pay attention to Proxima Persona. The design is equipped with a built-in fan and transport rollers:

model name: Proxima Persona;
price: RUB 72,990;
characteristics: dimensions - 193x86x146 cm, weight - 97 kg, engine power - 3.5 hp, maximum speed - 22 km/h, user weight - up to 180 kg, possible tilt - 22 levels, multimedia - speakers, Audio jack IN, full width – 52 cm;
pros: excellent functionality, folding design, quality workmanship;
cons: not the most affordable price.

FAMILY

Another good walking trainer is Family TM 200M. The track surface is equipped with a classic lowering system and an EasyDecline gas shock absorber. An important distinguishing feature is the energy saving mode:

model name: Family TM 200M;
price: RUB 27,990;
characteristics: dimensions - 135.5x62x125.2 cm, weight - 36 kg, engine power - 1.5 hp, speed - 0.8-12 km/h, running surface - 36x103 cm, deck thickness - 16 mm, user weight – up to 110 kg, inclination angle – 3 levels, basic training – 12, display – LCD;
pluses: folds, affordable cost, lightness;
Cons: narrow blade, not suitable for heavy users.

Recommendations

It is worth learning to stand on a step with your full foot. This is not running, which uses various techniques of rolling from toe to heel, and from heel to toe;
The handrails are not designed to hang on them with all the strength of your body, but to act as a support if you suddenly lose your balance;
During movement, the weight should be distributed as in normal walking; you should not lean on your knee or push it backwards;
For a stepper, it is better to choose sneakers with high-quality gel shock-absorbing soles. You can take running shoes or for aerobics, it doesn’t matter;
You need to inhale and exhale exclusively through your nose. Ideally, breathing should be smooth and not erratic;
Aerobic exercise is measured in its own efficiency frame of reference. You should measure your pulse and use it to control the load from your workout. There are two options - wear a heart monitor and measure your pulse using sensors located on the simulator

Stepper

Another interesting option for a walking trainer is the stepper. Compared to treadmills, this equipment is much cheaper and takes up less space. You can use it to practice heavy steps with slow pressure and noticeable effort. The technique of performing exercises may be different, but for weight loss it is better to choose a mode with low resistance and high frequency of rotation (pressing) of the pedals.

Body Sculpture

The Body Sculpture Mini Stepper is a modern rotating exercise machine that is ideal for home workouts. Training on it will be reminiscent of walking up stairs, and rubber expanders will help pump up the muscles of the arms and shoulder girdle:

model name: Body Sculpture BS-1370;
price: 4829 rub.;
characteristics: materials – metal, plastic, user weight – up to 100 kg, load system – mechanical, there is an expander, scanning mode and a computer displaying the main indicators, dimensions – 44x40x20 cm;
pros: comfortable pedals, small dimensions, reasonable cost;
cons: optimal for people with relatively low weight.

HouseFit

Another mini-stepper with an expander is HouseFit HS-5015. This walking machine has a console that displays your workout time, steps per minute, and calories burned. Good for home use:

model name: HouseFit HS-5015;
price: 5480 rub.;
characteristics: user weight – up to 100 kg, dimensions – 53x55x23 cm, weight – 12.8 kg, there are expanders, a computer displaying the main indicators;
pluses: non-slip pedals, compactness;
cons: not suitable for people weighing more than 100 kg.

BRADEX

The cardio stepper Cardio twister SF 0033 from BRADEX will help you work out most of the muscles of the body and achieve a toned stomach, slender hips and elastic buttocks. Well suited for both beginners and professionals. A special monitor displays and remembers the number of exercises done and calories burned. Walking can be accompanied by turning the body 180 degrees - there are comfortable handles for this:

model name: Cardio twister SF 0033 BRADEX;
price: 4990 rub.;
characteristics: materials - metal, plastic, load levels - 7, power load - from 2 to 20 kg, maximum permissible weight - 113 kg, dimensions - 64x72x120 cm, has a built-in monitor;
pros: comfortable, durable, handle;
Cons: slightly larger than analogues.

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Duration of training

If a stepper exercise is performed after strength training, then the duration of walking can be limited to 20 minutes. The fact is that the body is already warmed up, which means aerobic exercise will immediately begin to affect subcutaneous fat.

If a cardio session on a stepper is performed separately from other activities, it should last 1 hour. During the first 40 minutes, the body will warm up and accelerate metabolic processes, and the next 20 will begin to burn through the fat layer.

“Entering” and “exiting” into a cardio session on a stepper should be smooth. Without a gradual increase and decrease in load, the body will perceive the training as stress, which means that the burning of subcutaneous fat will not start.

As a rule, one intense activity can burn up to 500 kcal. But for weight loss to be effective, the device should be used at least 4-5 times a week. It is recommended to combine walking on a stepper with strength training and low-carbohydrate nutrition.

Ellipsoids

Exercises on an elliptical trainer help work out and tone the muscles of the thighs, buttocks, arms, shoulder girdle, back, abdominals and entire body. In addition to muscles, it can be used to train endurance. The heart of the elliptical device is the flywheel, which can be front or rear, heavy or light. The presented models differ in step length: the optimal option for the home is considered to be up to 40 cm. Advanced devices have the ability to adjust the angle of the pedals.

EVO FITNESS STELLA

The EVO FITNESS STELLA magnetic elliptical trainer is designed for exercising at home. The main emphasis in it is on the muscles of the buttocks and thighs, excluding overload of the knee joints. The frame design is able to provide an optimal position of the hands in relation to the handles, and the torso in relation to the pedals. The equipment is suitable for users of almost any size and height. The load control system is reliable. It is able to ensure uniform load distribution when moving. There is a display that displays the main parameters of the lesson:

model name: EVO FITNESS Stella;
price: RUB 13,990;
characteristics: step length – 33 cm, distance between pedals – 20 cm, load levels – 8, flywheel weight – 7 kg, user weight – up to 120 kg, display – monochrome LCD, there are transport rollers, weight – 27.9 kg, dimensions – 107x66x152 cm;
pluses: availability of adjustment relative to the floor level, convenient console, reasonable cost;
cons: none.

Oxygen

Another great option for weight loss and body shaping is Oxygen Pelican II EL. It has a high-strength frame, sensors on the handles for measuring heart rate and mechanical load adjustment. The LCD display shows your workout time, current speed, calorie consumption and heart rate. The device is capable of performing a fitness test. For ease of movement, Oxygen Pelican II EL is equipped with transport rollers:

Model name: Oxygen Pelican II EL;
price: 22190 rub.;
characteristics: dimensions – 124x71x165 cm, weight – 35 kg, step length – 31 cm, flywheel weight – 8 kg, load system – magnetic, drive – rear, load levels – 8, user weight – up to 130 kg, display – black and white LCD 5";
pluses: durable design, availability of an ergometer;
cons: expensive.

Sport Elite

The Sport Elite SE-602 exercise machine has a magnetic load system, transport rollers, and floor unevenness compensators. To measure pulse there is a heart rate sensor that is built into the handle:

model name: Sport Elite SE-602;
price: 14430 rub.;
characteristics: dimensions - 121x63x162 cm, weight - 41 kg, flywheel - rear, weight - 7 kg, load levels - 8, user weight - up to 100 kg, step length - 31 cm, has a display, power supply - 2 AAA batteries;
advantages: affordable cost, convenient platforms;
cons: small maximum permissible user weight.

Execution options

Lunges in step over a step . This option is often used to add variety to leg training. Steps across a step are similar to the walking lunges so beloved by modern athletes. They allow you to activate your hamstrings and glutes. The technique resembles a regular step, only the length of the step naturally becomes longer;
Steps sideways and crosswise . Lateral stepping is an excellent option for working the hip abductors and adductors, as well as for engaging the glutes. These options are suitable for those who are tired of regular strength training and want to do interval-style work.

How to choose a simulator

The simplest option is special poles, which are made of carbon fiber, aluminum and some composite materials. Nordic poles, unlike ski poles, have a spike for walking on snow or ice, a heel made of wear-resistant rubber for asphalt, and a tip for dirt roads. When purchasing such a device, determine the optimal length of the poles: multiply your height by 0.68. For example, for a person 174 cm tall, you will need products with a length of 118-120 cm. It is better to give preference to retractable telescopic poles, whose length can be adjusted.

A treadmill usually takes up a lot of space, so it is not suitable for a small living space. Basic recommendations when choosing such a simulator:

Decide between an electric, magnetic or mechanical trainer. The first one is the most suitable and functional, and the last one is budget-friendly.
The running platform must have the optimal thickness to absorb shock. The best option is a multi-layer tape 2 cm thick. There are also double-sided platforms that are turned over when one side wears out.
Make sure the treadmill is stable and has a balance of firmness and softness.
The control panel should display all the necessary parameters, including body indicators.

When buying an elliptical trainer, give preference to a folding model that takes up minimal space. Take several criteria into account:

Decide on the type. The cheapest is the magnetic ellipsoid. More functional options are magnetic with electronic adjustment and electromagnetic.
Flywheel weight. The more, the better the inertia.
Flywheel location. It comes in front and back. The last option is convenient for tall people.
Step length. It is convenient for short users to exercise on devices with any step length, but rear-wheel drive ellipsoids with a large distance between the pedals are inconvenient for them. Tall people should give preference to front-wheel drive with a step length of 51 cm or rear-wheel drive from 46 to 48 cm.

For home use, the best choice is a stepper. When purchasing it, keep in mind that the mechanical model has fewer functions than its electromagnetic counterpart, but it is silent and does not require external power sources. Please note the maximum user weight and design dimensions. If your leg mobility is different, then give preference to the version with independent pedal travel. A stepper with a manual built-in expander can be an effective choice.

Cons and contraindications

Nordic walking does not have any significant disadvantages in any of its manifestations. The only downside is that it burns fewer calories than, for example, running or swimming.

But even such a seemingly simple and sometimes even primitive exercise has contraindications

When Nordic walking, the heart rate increases, so people with cardiovascular diseases are advised to consult a doctor before starting training.

Major manufacturers of climbers

Climber Matrix

Johnson is an American company that produces stair steppers under the Matrix brand. The brand is a leading manufacturer of this type of exercise equipment on the professional sports equipment market. Such exercise machines are intended for use in fitness clubs, but are also perfect for home use. The cost of the manufacturer’s line varies from 596,000 – 1,200,000 rubles.

Climber StairMaster

StairMaster is the founder and first brand to release stair steppers. Although the manufacturer still produces high-quality, top-notch exercise equipment, Johnson is slightly ahead of the company. But the brand produces exercise equipment in a wide price range, which makes it possible to purchase a similar escalator for your home. Price from 320,000 to 1,019,000 rubles.

Climber Life Fitness

Life Fitness is a company that produces PowerMill stair trainers that are not inferior to competitors in quality. The exercise machines are intended for professional use in fitness centers. The cost varies from 950,000 to 1,480,000 rubles.