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Wednesday, February 12th
Xterra Fitness, based in Jonesboro, Arkansas, is driven to make fitness accessible to you in your home, whether you're just starting out on your fitness journey or whether you're a competitive athlete. Their seated stepper can fit into homes with even the lowest ceilings as not much headroom is needed. Xterra is one of the few companies to offer free shipping, and their customer service is outstanding.
Great for most body types and for most body needs
The Xterra Seated Stepper is designed to handle a body height of 4'7” to 6'2” and holds a max of 300 pounds. Because it's in the seated style, and there's less strain on the hips and ankles, it's a good stepper machine for those in physical rehabilitation, the older population, and those who don't feel as steady on their feet. Even if you're in great condition, there are 24 levels of resistance, so you'll still get a good workout from the Xterra.
Unique features on their handles, seat, and foot pedals
You can adjust the length of the handles for your arm length. If you have other users in your household, just remember which notch you're at to easily hop back on again at your comfort. The hand grips rotate 360 degrees with smooth and durable bearings. The seat has a cool and comfortable mesh back, and the foot pedals self-balance with easy-adjust ratcheting straps so you don't slip off.
One choice of console
The console has a display of 5” and there are 24 programs to keep you motivated. They're not live or on-demand classes, but it's the traditional monitor where you set the time and program, and you increase or decrease the speed or intensity every cycle of the program. There's a heart-rate sensor on the seat handlebar. The Xterra also has an audio jack for your headphones as well as a built-in speaker. There's a built-in reading rack which looks like it should hold your phone so you can watch your favorite program while you work out.
No worrying about your ceiling height
Because you're seated, you don't have to worry that your head will hit your ceiling when using your stepper. It takes up a little less of your floor space than you'd imagine, too: it's 52.1” long, 14.7” wide, and only 50” high. It's also only 132 pounds, one of the lightest stair steppers out there. There are also transport wheels, so if you have to move the Xterra out of the way, you can use the wheels, making it easier on you and your floor.
Payment options
You can pay your Xterra stair climber off all at once or you can pay it off in 6, 12, or 24 months. And if you pay it off in the allotted time, you'll have 0% APR.
30-day return policy
If you're not satisfied, for any reason, within 30 days of delivery of your Xterra Seated Stepper, contact customer service. You'll need an RA number from them, and will need to return the stepper in its original packaging and in good condition. You will be responsible for return shipping and a 10% restocking fee, and they suggest you insure the package.
Decent warranty
The warranty for the Xterra is pretty good when you compare it to other stair climbers you'll find out there. There's a 1-year warranty on labor, 3 years on parts, and a lifetime warranty on the frame/brake.
Free shipping
It's quite rare to find free shipping on stair climbers or larger pieces of gym equipment. But Xterra does offer it, so the price you see is the price you'll pay, no large shipping fee added. In fact, Xterra doesn't even add sales tax.
Most customers love it
It's quiet, and users get a good workout. The Xterra can take up to an hour to assemble, and be sure to follow instructions carefully. If there were issues, users loved Xterra's customer service as they have gone above and beyond for them. Some owners who are on the shorter side, taller side, or larger side, are disappointed that the machine may not fit them as well as they had hoped. This, of course, can happen because of the limitations when it's a recumbent machine.
For the price, durability, and customer service, it's great
Xterra has one of the least expensive stair steppers out there, and yet it's made durably, is lightweight, has an excellent warranty, and has free shipping. The only suggestion we would have is to add the option of stabilizing the swinging handles, as that seemed to have bothered a few users. At this point, it's preference. Are you more comfortable with a traditional standing stair climber (and is your ceiling tall enough for the one you want), or are you more comfortable with the seated stepper? If recumbent is your ideal workout position, the Xterra stair climber is the perfect choice.
Stair climbers, often known as "stair steppers,” have been around fitness centers for about 40 years. They're a refreshing change to the treadmill and exercise bike, and offer an intense workout. Depending on factors such as your fitness level, age, weight, and chosen resistance level, you could burn an impressive 500 calories in about half an hour on a stair climber.
There are a variety of reasons why stair climbers are so popular. For example, stair climbers are renowned for their effectiveness in calorie burning and weight loss. The rhythmic movement engages major muscle groups such as the legs, glutes, and core, leading to an efficient way to burn calories. This makes stair climbing an attractive option for individuals aiming to shed excess weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Another reason why stair climbers are popular is their efficiency in providing a cardiovascular workout. The repetitive motion of climbing stairs elevates the heart rate, enhancing blood circulation and promoting cardiovascular fitness. This aerobic exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy heart and lungs, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and improving overall endurance. Stair climbers offer an alternative to high-impact cardiovascular activities like running, making them accessible to a broader demographic, including individuals with joint issues or those seeking a gentler form of exercise.
The low-impact nature of stair climbing is another key factor contributing to its popularity. Unlike high-impact exercises that can put stress on the joints and increase the risk of injury, stair climbing provides a challenging workout with minimal impact. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals with joint concerns, older adults, or those recovering from injuries who still want to engage in effective exercise without compromising their joint health.
Are you wondering which stair climber or stepper suits you best? There are a few styles available. There's a "stair mill” where you literally climb stairs that resemble a rotating staircase like an escalator at the mall. The intensity of the workout is determined by the speed you choose. These machines are the heaviest yet sturdiest of the stair climbers, and although they can take up more space in your room, they offer pretty intense workouts, just like the stair climbers in the gym.
Another form is the stair stepper. You'll push up and down against foot pedals, and the workout intensifies when you increase the resistance. Some of this type have handles so you can work your arms and upper body as well.
A third type to consider, especially if you have shorter ceilings in your home, is the recumbent, or seated stair stepper. You'll get your great full-body stepper workout, but your head won't approach the ceiling since you're seated.
Which stair climber is the right one for you? Since there are many options to consider, it can feel overwhelming. Here are some factors to keep in mind as you begin to shop. Before you know it, you'll find the stair climber that's best not only for you, but for the space in your home.
Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and ranked the top stair climbers on the market today. We're confident that this information will help you to narrow down the options so you can find the perfect stair climber for your home gym and your stair climbing workout.
Select any 2 Stair Climbers to compare them head to head