The physical features of the stair climber rest mostly within the type of resistance that is used and how the stairs move, but there are a few features worth mentioning.
Important Features
Grips
Whether you’re on a cheap hydraulic system or high-class gym climber, you want to make sure your feet aren’t going to slip out from under you. Grip types include a textured tread common on hydraulic stair climbers and raised rubber line treads found on higher-end models.
Console
Most stair climbers offer a clear display with a few fitness feedback options. At a minimum, you want to find a stair climber with a console that displays the time, distance, and pace of your workout.
Foot Action
Pressing
The most common form of foot action for stair climbers is the motion of pressing down on the pedal and it lifts itself back up automatically. This forces more of a marching movement which still offers a great workout but isn’t the same as climbing a flight of steps.
Stepping
This is the best type of foot action because it accurately mimics the physical act of traditional stair climbing. You will only find this function on expensive step mills which are a continually cycling track of stairs.
Resistance Types
Magnetic
Magnetic resistance offers a smooth and quiet resistance by activating and deactivating magnets to create more or less resistance. Unlike cycles, ellipticals, and rowers, which are large enough to support sizable flywheels, stair climbers are often small which makes offering a range of magnetic resistance difficult.
Hydraulic
Hydraulic resistance works when force is applied to an incompressible liquid like an oil which is moved to another point, thus creating resistance in the process. Since you’re pressing down instead of pushing and pulling as you would with say an exercise bike, the regular jerkiness associated with this resistance type does not apply.
Is a Stair Climber Right for You?
A stair climber could be a great investment or a giant waste of money depending on where and how you’re going to use it. If you get a traditional stair climber, it will save you a lot of space compared to other pieces of cardio equipment. Stair climbers also offer a greater amount of lower bodywork than a traditional cardio machine which makes them as good as two or more pieces of equipment.
On the other hand, high-end step mills can cost thousands of dollars not to mention bills associated with their upkeep. There’s also the issue of the constant pushing or stepping which can be shocking to the joints, a very real issue for individuals with past or existing joint injuries. However, a stair climber of any kind is a great addition to your workout especially if you are strapped for time and space.