We’ve had this stepper for almost 2 months now and are quite pleased with it. Since I’m retired and spend much of my day sitting at a computer, piano or sewing machine, I knew I needed more activity in my life. Also, the winters where we live are quite long and often it’s too miserable to go out for a walk.
After reading about the health detriments caused by extended periods of little movement, I wanted an exerciser with a small footprint, was movable and doable for my age and fitness level. The Sunny Stepper fits the bill. I set a timer to ring every 30 to 45 minutes, then I mount the Stepper and do at least 5 minutes of activity, then reset my timer for my next ‘workout’. Sometimes for more of a workout, I swing my arms as if running, with elbows bent, or swing my arms as when walking. (Make sure you have the balance to do this). I usually turn on the TV, or have my iPad/phone with me during the exercise time to keep my mind ‘off’ exercising so I workout longer and often have found myself doing 10 minutes without realizing it.
One benefit I have noticed is the increase in strength of my legs. I always run when taking the stairs, whether at home or out, but noticed this past year it was becoming difficult to do. The steps seemed ‘too high’. I realize now, that it was the loss of muscle mass in my legs that was causing this weakness. After 2 months, I can once more run up the stairs and our front steps to the house don’t feel ‘so high’.
I am not a particularly fit person, though I was in my youth. I try to walk about 45 minutes a day, weather permitting, and like that this Stepper fills the gaps. I also have some autoimmunity, which means the ‘warrior’ aerobic classes I used to enjoy in my 40’s, are a ‘no-no’, not that I could do them now anyway. Small movement, gentle, but consistent exercise is a must.
My husband is at a desk all day but has the advantage of being able to frequently get up and move around. At night he would just crash on the sofa after dinner for the entire night, but now he gets up and works out on the machine as well.
Some logistics… I put the unit together by myself in 40 minutes, from opening the box to completion. I am able to lift the unit and move it, but prefer to keep it where it is, as it is a bit awkward.
The steps will feel ‘firm’ if your muscles are weak, like mine were, but hey, that’s what you’re working on right!? We haven’t tightened the manual resistance knob. The tension at it’s least position is fine for us. I’m more interested in working longer, not harder.
I’m 5’3”, husband 5’8’ and the support handles are comfortable for both. Neither of us bother with the digital readout display. As many others have noted, it really doesn’t provide adequate or consistent enough information to be of any value. Besides, you can tell by your strength and clothes that it’s working.
That’s it. Quality unit at an excellent price.
If you have hardwood or laminate floors, place the unit on a mat. It’s heavy enough that it won’t move while working out, but it will scratch your floors if you you reposition it.
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