Stepper

If used correctly, stepper machines provide a good workout for your legs and glut muscles, as well as a low impact cardiovascular workout for your heart and lungs.

The biggest mistake that most people make when using a stepper machine is to support their body weight with their arms. This, combined with leaning too far forward, places excessive pressure on the lower back.

• Aim to keep a smooth rhythm, with medium size steps for beginners, and those of a good fitness level can increase the size of the stepping.
• Keeping your back upright, and using your hands as balance, when holding the machine, will promote good technique. Remember to warm-up and stretch prior to doing any exercise.
• Most machines these days will have a computer display as well as a selection of programs.
• Beginners should aim for 6 - 12 minutes on an easy level. On a scale of 1 - 12 aim for a 3 - 5.
• Intermediates and advanced should aim for 10 minutes + at a harder level, aim for 6 - 9.