When it comes to maintaining physical fitness, cardio is king. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend at least 150 minutes per week of aerobic activity to keep your body in shape. There is no shortage of gear that you can use to get a great workout at home. Two of the most popular exercise machines are stairclimbers and treadmills. These options yield similar results. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind while deciding which one will provide you with the best workout.
Shop this article: NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill, Bowflex Max Trainer M8 and Sportsroyals Stair Stepper
A traditional favorite among fitness enthusiasts because of their simplicity and effectiveness. The treadmill has you run on a moving, adjustable conveyor belt. Treadmills are usually the first machines people turn to when they’re trying to get in shape. It’s not uncommon to see multiple rows of occupied treadmills taking up floor space in professional gyms.
For most people, climbing a few flights of stairs can be challenging. Stairclimbers, also called stair steppers, mimic this action by letting you ascend an endless staircase. Stairclimbers are available in a wider range of configurations than treadmills. Some are small enough to slide under your sofa. Others engage your entire body.
This treadmill can be the foundation of any home gym. It has a 10-inch touch screen, customizable speed and elevation settings and access to NordicTrack’s professional training programs via iFit. It folds up to move out of the way while not in use.
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This treadmill is sturdy enough for the heaviest runners. It features a tablet holder, a USB charging port, Bluetooth speakers and a thick, durable belt that provides a premium feel and increased longevity.
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NordicTrack T Series Treadmill
This treadmill features special cushioning that you can customize to your liking. You can use your smart device to take advantage of NordicTrack’s iFit training programs or listen to music via its auxiliary music port.
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Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
This treadmill features a simple interface and folds up tightly for storage. It's budget-friendly and easy to use. It includes preset workout programs and a cushioned deck for less joint strain.
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This climber from BowFlex is packed with features such as an LED screen, customizable workouts and compatibility with the company’s JRNY workout subscription. It combines the range of motion of an elliptical with the strength training of a stairclimber.
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MaxiClimber XL-2000 Hydraulic Resistance Vertical Climber
Combine high-intensity cardio and climbing with this compact machine from MaxiClimber. You can get a full-body workout without sacrificing floor space for a large, heavy treadmill.
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This little stairclimber can fit under your desk so you can exercise while working. It includes resistance bands that let you get your arms and shoulders into the mix via a variety of workout options.
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Sunny Health & Fitness Twisting Stair Stepper Machine
This stairclimber includes handles for better balance and uses two hydraulic cylinders to provide resistance. Its twisting action engages more muscles than competing stairclimber machines.
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Derek Walborn writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.