9 Best Exercise Steppers Reviewed & Compared
Each of these steppers is versatile, durable, lightweight, and portable, so you can easily move it around as you need it. Some are even adjustable in height.
Aerobic training steps are simple yet effective tools to help you get fit or complement your current training routine.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Stability
When looking to invest in a training step, stability is one of the single most important factors.
Typically, this means looking at the step’s quality and what materials it’s constructed out of. If the primary material is high-density polyethylene, which is the case with many models on the market today, you’re can most likely be sure that you’re getting a high-quality, stable aerobic step.
The feet of the step should also be taken into consideration. Generally speaking, you’ll want to look for something that has nonskid feet. This not only protects your floors from scratches and other damage, but it gives the exercise step some extra stability. These “grippy” feet stick firmly to the floor, giving you an extra layer or protection in terms of stability.
Comfort
It’s important to find a training step that has a comfortable, cushioned surface.
The cushioning under your feet makes your workout not only more comfortable but also easier on your ankle joints. Additionally, you’ll want to look for one with plenty of grip. Most surfaces are rubberized, which is great for providing you with a controlled, secure step. Some even have tread to them for extra grip.
Any sort of textured pattern on the surface is a good thing to look for. It’s probably a good idea to not even consider buying a workout stepper that doesn’t have a non-slip surface. All of the products listed above use a non-slip surface. Some are shock absorbing as well, which is a great feature to have for intense workouts.
Size
While most training steps on the market today have an adjustable height, there still are some that don’t.
Typically, you’re going to want to purchase an aerobic step that’s adjustable because they’re so much more versatile. With an adjustable training step, you can increase or decrease height to align with your fitness level and which muscles you’re trying to target.
For beginners, while it might be tempting to simply purchase a non-adjustable step, consider this: soon after starting to train with your exercise step, you’re going to be ready for the next height level. Rather than going out and buying a new, higher step, why not save time and money by adjusting the height of the one you already have?
Weight
The weight capacity of your exercise step can typically give you some pretty good insight as to its durability and quality.
There are many training steps on the market that have an extremely high weight limit of around 550 pounds or higher. However, there are still some that aren’t very supportive in terms of weight. Some lower-quality steps have a weight capacity of around 220 pounds, and customers have complained that the step does not even support that much.
The last thing you want is for your training step to buckle under your weight. This is hazardous for both you and your best exercise step. If you’re going to spend the money on investing in the exercise step, make sure it’s one that’s going to give you years of use.
Value
If you’re new to the world of fitness steps, you may want to start with a more affordable aerobic step.
If you’re a fitness step pro and you’ve been using them for years, it’s probably safe to say a more expensive model will be worth the money. Additionally, don’t assume that the least expensive is necessary for poor quality. Likewise, don’t assume that the most expensive is top-of-the-line.
How much money you’re wanting to spend on your exercise steps is really a personal decision, but the majority of the options on our list above are relatively affordable. As with anything in life, striking that balance between price and value is what you should be aiming for.
Our Top 9 Favorite Exercise Steppers
1. Tone Fitness
Our #1 Overall Blends Performance with an Affordable Price Point
Incredibly stable and secure, this stepper comes with an exercise guide to help you get the most out of your workout.
Read moreStability/Durability
The Tone Fitness Aerobic training stepper has an incredibly secure surface for your workout routine. In addition to being well-built, the surface has non-slip properties, so you don’t have to worry about any accidental falls. The feet of this steeper are non-skid so your floors will be protected from scuff marks or damage.
Additional Info
This model has two adjustable height levels, either 4” or 6”. A workout chart that provides additional instructions is included with the purchase.
Cost and Value
This is one of the most affordable options on the market today.
2. The Step Original
The Stepper that Started it All is Still a Strong Choice
Their original exercise step is one of the highest-rated products, and it comes with a warranty, should you not be fully satisfied.
Read moreStability/Durability
The surface of the exercise stepper is designed to be low-impact and high-intensity. It measures 40” L x 14” W and can support up to 300 pounds. Additionally, the surface is cushioned with a non-latex material and is non-slip. Made from durable, recyclable high-density polyethylene, you can be sure that you’re receiving the best quality possible with this platform.
Additional Info
This exercise stepper includes four risers so you can adjust the height from 4” to 6” to 8”. The risers have non-skid feet to protect the floor from scratches. Instructional exercise videos are included with your purchase to help you begin effectively training.
Cost and value
This is one of the more expensive aerobic steppers on the market, but its quality makes it well worth the price. Additionally, it's backed by a 90-day manufacturer’s warranty.
3. Yes4All
The Winner of Our 'Unique Design' Award
Great for traditionalists, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to give their home gym a modern makeover.
Read moreStability/Durability
We love the edgy, design-forward approach of this exercise stepper. Yes4All has done a great job creating a stepper to challenge the status quo in both form and function, and we think they've hit a proverbial home run.
While being nice to look at, this stepper is also as solid as they come and features an innovative disc riser system. The risers can be used to raise the platform, or they can be used as single-steps by themselves!
Additional Info
The Yes4All stepper boasts a 300-pound weight capacity, high-quality grip tread, and non-slip feet. The standard package is adjustable from 4" to 8", slightly less than some other designs, but is compatible with extra risers which can be purchased separately. Also, for the color coordinators out there, it's available in either red or blue.
Cost and Value
We love this stepper for its cutting-edge design, durability, and flexibility. While it ranks on the higher price end of our top exercise steppers, the Yes4All stepper is a strong player in the market and worth consideration by any fitness enthusiast.
4. Sunny Health & Fitness
Our Favorite Mechancial Exercise Stepper
Across the world of exercise steppers, the Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper offers a different take on this product category.
Read moreStability/Durability
With a unique design, this exercise stepper takes step training to a new level. With its motorized, stair-climbing design and integration with exercise bands, this little beast offers a killer full-body workout. The Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper is very stable and easy to use on any flat solid surface.
The aerobic exercise stepper is designed with secure foot straps that reduce shock absorption for long-term comfort. The resistant bands add an increased level of workout options and intensity without being cumbersome.
Additional Info
The Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper has a compact footprint so you can use it just about anywhere you have a flat, stable surface. Its design allows you to work your legs, stomach, chest, and arms.
Built with a hydraulic drive system, this exercise stepper provides a smooth stepping motion that's fluid and natural for a full body workout and offers adjustable levels of resistance and difficulty. Keep in mind that this stepper has a weight limit of 220 pounds.
Cost and Value
The Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper is reasonably priced and, in our analysis, worth the investment. It is easy to use, versatile, durable, and functional, making it a great option for any athlete looking for a unique way to boost his/her step-training routine.
5. Reebok
The Top Rated Professional-Level Stepper
The Reebok workout aerobic step was first introduced to health clubs over 25 years ago, and it continues to be a best-seller today. Suitable for all abilities and fitness levels, if you’re looking for an all-around high-quality step, this is a great option.
Read moreStability/Durability
The non-slip surface measures 40 x 15 inches gives you plenty of space and stability, no matter the intensity of the workout. This step’s thick plastic construction makes it even more solid, boasting a weight limit of 350 pounds.
Additional Info
Risers allow you to workout at your preferred height level of 6, 8, or 10 inches. The exercise stepper folds for convenient storage.
Cost and Value
This is the most expensive product on this best exercise step list, however, it's also one of the highest-quality and a go-to for many gyms and fitness professionals.
6. The Step High Step
Our Top Single-Step Stacking Stepper Platform
If you've used aerobic exercise steps in the past and you're looking for a little extra intensity, the Step High Step Aerobic Platform is a great choice. The platform's height can be adjusted from 4" all the way up to 12"!
Read moreStability/Durability
Made of durable, recyclable high-density polyethylene, the quality is exceptional. The non-slip, grooved surface measures 13” L x 9” W x 4” H. Non-skid feet keep the stepper in place while you exercise, while also protecting your floor. This stepper's weight capacity is 275 pounds.
Additional Info
Four black risers enable you to adjust the height of the step anywhere between 4” and 12” in 2" increments. Each riser measures 16” L x 16” W x 2” H. Instructional videos are included with purchase.
Cost and Value
This exercise stepper is priced similarly to others on the market and is backed by a 90-day warranty.
7. EFITMENT
A Solid Second Choice Mechanical Stepper
The EFITMENT Fitness Stepper adds a whole new twist to exercise steppers. Why use stepping boards and benches when you can use a motorized aerobic stepper with adjustable intensity?
Read moreStability/Durability
With a four leg, double-T positioning, the EFITMENT Fitness Stepper is very stable and balanced for all manner of workouts. It will give you a great way to safely and effectively take your stepping workout to heights you have never before been able to reach!
Additional Info
Heel supports and grippers on the foot pads keep your feet securely in place for a comfortable experience each and every time. You have multiple adjustments for intensity and resistance so you can stay within your comfort zone and be in control of your workout sessions.
This device is very compact so you can use it just about anywhere that has a sturdy flat surface. It is easy to transport and is wide enough to provide good stability and support without being cumbersome or bulky.
It weighs only 15 pounds and is rated for up to 200 pounds. Its compact yet durable design makes it a very popular choice for motorized steppers.
Cost and Value
The price tag for the EFITMENT Fitness Stepper is very reasonable and is a great choice for athletes and the health-conscious alike.
8. KLB Sport
Our 2nd Choice in Budget Steppers
This design from KLB Sport is simple and affordable. It is manufactured with strong and sturdy materials and features a flat, non-slip surface. Like any good exercise stepper, its height is adjustable allowing for a tailored fitness challenge.
Read moreStability/Durability
What we liked most about this design is that it has a long, wide base that accommodates most users. It has non-slip surfaces with a grooved texture that really grips the bottoms of your sneakers and stays in place as you use it.
Additional Info
It also allows you to adjust the height of the base as needed. If you want a little more of a challenge, adding booster legs to the end of the unit makes it a little bit taller. The legs slip easily into place, and don’t require the use of tools to take them on and off.
Cost and Value
The KLB Sport exercise stepper is priced a little higher than its competitors but it is well-built, simple to use, and will serve your fitness needs for a long time.
9. Trademark Innovations
Our Runner-Up for Stacking Single-Steps
The Trademark Innovations stacking stepper comes in either blue or pink and is similar to The High Step model. It boasts a stackable boxy design that will get you up to 12" of stepping height.
Read moreStability/Durability
The classic square design serves more specific workout purposes. With the focused, single-step approach, you are able to step up higher and really work your legs and glutes.
Additional Info
The Trademark Innovations Exercise Stepper includes 4 risers which lock securely together for simple adjustment. Each riser measures 16"x16" for a total max height of 12".
Cost and Value
If you are in the market for a single-step aerobic stepper, this is a great place to start. Even if you're not ready for the full 12" height yet, the adjustable risers will allow you to start where you can and work your way up over time.
Sources
- , Step Training Guidelines, International Fitness Website
- , The Joints and Muscles Used in Step-Ups, International Wellness Website
- , Step Up Fitness Test, International Wellness Website
