If you walk into a health club, chances are that you will see either a stair climber, elliptical trainer, or both. The popularity of both machines is a result of their ability to address the fitness concerns of their customers. You can use either machine to burn calories and improve cardiovascular function which can help with weight loss, a major concern for most Americans. But which machine should you choose? That depends on your own specific fitness goals.
Weight Loss - Elliptical trainers and stair climbers are both effective exercise machines for burning calories, but the elliptical is better. As a general rule, a 200 lb. person burns about 1,030 calories with 60 minutes of elliptical training, but only 815 calories for the same time on a stair climber. Since a stair climber feels like a more intense workout on your lower body, it is harder to maintain a workout that lasts one hour. An elliptical trainer's lower rate of perceived exertion means you are more likely to finish one hour of exercise, and if your machine has moveable arms, you can work both your upper body and lower body at the same time, increasing calories burned.
Muscles Worked - Both machines work your lower body muscles, the glutes, quadriceps, calves, and hamstrings. Both machines require balance so you work your core to as a way of stabilizing your body throughout the workout. But an elliptical trainer with moveable arms can work the upper body as well, giving you more of an all body workout. Also, the elliptical is a more versatile machine which allows you to vary your workouts, by changing the resistance, incline, or possibly even allowing you to peddle in reverse motion.
Stronger Bones - Both machines help to build bone density. Stair climbing and elliptical training are weight-bearing and they work directly on the bones in your legs, hips and lower spine to slow mineral loss, according to the Mayo Clinic's website. Another nice feature of both machines is their ability to build bone without stressing your joints. The elliptical trainer is a little easier on your joints so that may be the best option if you have an injury. It is always best to consult with a professional such as a doctor or physical therapist before starting an exercise program if you have an injury or disability.
Space - An elliptical trainer takes more floor space but a stair climber is more vertical, requiring a higher ceiling. It is always best to make sure you have the space available before you purchase a fitness machine. The exact dimensions of the machine will be listed on the website, or you can ask the salesperson directly.
Price and Durability - A high quality fitness machine that is durably built so you will have little or no maintenance problems will cost thousands of dollars. A commercial grade machine that is used and has been professionally refurbished is a great way to save a lot of money, and these refurbished fitness machines should have many years of hassle free workouts left.
Trying to decide between a stair climber and an elliptical trainer is a little easier when you look at your fitness goals and your own fitness, including any chronic injuries or disabilities. Going through that analysis will make the choice to purchase a new or refurbished elliptical or stair climber much simpler.
