When it comes to mini steppers, deciding between a twist stepper or a regular mini stepper is one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make. Both regular and twist steppers are compact and lightweight making them extremely convenient for those with small spaces as well as for storing in the closet or under your desk, but there are a few differences that may help narrow down your choice. In this article, I’ll go over the differences between twist steppers and regular steppers, as well as some of the benefits to help you make the best choice for you!
Types of Steppers
You’ll notice we also offer mini steppers and twist steppers with handlebar and resistance bands options. The handlebar is great for beginners or those who are a little unsure of their balance. Resistance bands are a good option for those looking to strengthen their upper body and core, all while stepping on the stepper for a full body workout.
What is a Regular Mini Stepper?
Imagine you’re climbing a set of stairs. With each step, your glutes, hamstrings, quads, and calves are engaged and working as you climb. Stepping on a regular mini stepper is just like climbing stairs and will work all the major muscles in your legs.
Unlike running on a treadmill or scaling stairs at your local stadium, when using a mini stepper, your foot doesn’t leave the pedal making it low impact. Low impact activities are great for those looking to minimize strain on their joints.
On mini steppers with adjustable resistance, you can increase the resistance to make it more challenging to complete each step. The resistance paired with a stepping motion make mini steppers a great option for both building strength and cardiovascular fitness in the lower body.
Benefits of Regular Mini Stepper
Regular steppers can provide a fantastic cardiovascular workout and strengthen your glutes, hamstrings, quads, and calves. They are great for beginners, those recovering from an injury and looking to avoid any rotational movements, or those that prefer the direct up and down motion on the steps.
What is a Twist Stepper?
Twist steppers are unique in that they add a slight twisting motion as you step. This motion helps to further target the glutes, inner and outer thighs and obliques all while working the same muscles as a regular mini stepper.
This style of stepper is great for additional muscle toning as you work out, as well as targeting those smaller muscle groups that help keep your body stable through regular daily movements like twisting, lunging, and side stepping.
Benefits of Twist Stepper
The benefits of twist stepping over a regular stepper aren’t that significant on the surface – at the end of the day, both machines will give you an incredible workout. However, twist steppers work additional muscles, thanks to the twisting motion. Your core, obliques, inner and outer thighs, and glutes will work harder to keep your body stable with each step. More muscles worked means more calories burned, and those results really compound over time!
Can I Complete Twist Stepper Workouts with my Regular Mini Stepper and Vice-Versa?
Yes, you absolutely can complete twist stepper workouts with your regular mini stepper. Workouts are designed for a stepping motion - whether twisting or straight up and down! Just follow along at home with what stepper you have, and you’ll achieve a very similar workout to the workout presented. Regardless of which stepper you have - regular mini stepper or twist stepper - you’re in for a great workout!
