Getting your steps in can be tough, even on the best of days. Throw snow, chilly weather or freezing cold rain into mix, and you may have no desire to be outside. On those days you’re trying to get movement in, this mini stepper can help. Packaged with a pair of resistance bands, reviewers say this is a “convenient, affordable, and effective way to stay active at home.” Best of all? It’s currently 35% off!
Deemed “perfect for getting in a good cardio session without taking up a lot of space or needing a gym,” several say this is a solid machine to have around when it’s nasty outside or when you’re just feeling too lazy to hit the gym.
With an adjustable stride and a set of resistance bands, this space-saving stepper targets different body parts, from your calves, thighs and hips to your tush and stomach.
While walking pads have boomed in popularity, this small stair stepper helps you move, but also goes a little further. The machine has an LCD screen that displays calories burned, step count, time elapsed and more. Unlike other home fitness equipment, this gadget can easily stow away out of sight, whether in a closet or under a desk. And at just under 12 pounds, you can take it just about anywhere.
The stair stepper is also only 16.5 inches tall at its maximum height and comes with two resistance bands that latch onto its base for additional full-body conditioning. It can take up to 300 pounds of weight, with adjustable foot pedals that can hold up to a men’s shoe size 12. The brand also describes it as a particularly quiet machine, so it won’t disrupt others around you while you step.
Several users say this mini stepper is easy to use, has plenty of adjustable resistance, and they love that it comes preassembled. “This mini stair stepper is such a great workout!” wrote one customer. “It will definitely make you sweat and you’ll feel the burn. I love hopping on while watching one of my shows it makes the time fly by. It even has an adjustable resistance setting that lets you make the workout harder if you want more of a challenge. I don’t personally use the included armbands I prefer my own weights but that’s just personal preference. ”
Burn calories from the comfort of your home with this on-sale mini stepper, and read on for more rave reviews from other users who have something to say about their new step routine.
“The best work out is the one you will actually do. I have a gym membership and I love exercising outdoors, but lately it’s been rainy, cold, and I’ve been too lazy or busy to make it to the gym. I also don’t have a thousand bucks to blow on some fancy treadmill. That’s why I have this little guy hiding right under the bed. I wouldn’t call it a grueling work out, but you do break a sweat if you keep at it and it’s a hell of a lot better than just sitting on the couch!” — Sara Beth
“This is the perfect choice if you don’t have a lot of space in your room. I love this mini stair stepper – it’s way better than I expected! It will definitely make you sweat and feel it in your glutes, which means it’s working! It’s affordable and the delivery was fast. Give it a try!” — Pearl
“4/5 – Great Low-Impact Workout at Home
I’ve been using this exercise stepper for a few weeks now, and overall, I’m really pleased with it. It’s compact, easy to store, and surprisingly effective for such a small machine. It’s perfect for getting in a good cardio session without taking up a lot of space or needing a gym.
Pros:
• Compact & Portable: Fits easily in my living room, and I can tuck it away when not in use.
• Low-Impact: Great for joint-friendly workouts, especially if you’re avoiding high-impact exercises.
• Effective: Gets my heart rate up and gives my legs a solid burn after just 15-20 minutes.
• Sturdy: Despite its size, it feels well-built and stable when in use.
• Optional Resistance Bands: Some models come with built-in resistance bands which are great for adding an upper-body component.
Cons:
• Repetitive Motion: As expected, the motion can get a bit repetitive, so I usually pair it with music or TV.
• Not Ideal for Tall Users: I’m average height, and it works fine, but taller users might find the range of motion a bit limited.
• Limited Resistance Settings: Some steppers don’t offer much adjustability, so workouts can feel the same unless you change pace manually.
Bottom Line:
If you’re looking for a convenient, affordable, and effective way to stay active at home, especially on busy days, this stepper is a solid choice. It’s not a full replacement for a treadmill or elliptical, but for the price and size, it does a great job.” — emily marie bowling
Amazon
A weighted vest to increase bone density while walking (25% off)
According to Ho, “Weighted vests increase bone-loading stimulus, especially during walking or bodyweight exercises.” To properly use a weighted vest for walking to help with bone density or osteoporosis, Medical News Today suggests trying out a vest without weights first, then adding the lowest possible amount and slowly increasing that amount over time. (It’s generally recommended that you start with no more than 10% of your body weight, but always check with your physician first.)
To do this, you may be best off with an adjustable vest like this one by Zelus, so you can change the weight. The vest comes in three sizes and six colors, with six removable weights on each vest. The vest is designed to evenly distribute the load, and the neoprene material is strong and comfortable. The vest is also equipped with reflective strips for visibility and a pocket to hold your keys, phone and other essentials.
Promising review: “My workout program includes a daily walk/run. I have osteoporosis in my spine and I’d been looking for a weight vest to wear during my walks to possibly help rebuild bone density. I really like this vest because the straps are adjustable; there’re pockets in the front to hold keys, tissue, etc.; it doesn’t ride up or rub when I’m running; and the weights are easy to add and remove. The vest had a noticeable chemical smell when I first took it out the box, but the smell quickly dissipated after the vest sat out a couple days. All in all, it’s great value for the money!” — E. R. Rogers
Amazon
A set of resistance bands with different resistance levels
Dr. Raphael Longobardi, New Jersey-based orthopedic surgeon, Kai-Yu Ho, a physical therapist and professor of physical therapy at University of Nevada and Dr. Deborah Sellmeyer, a clinical professor of medicine in endocrinology, gerontology and metabolism at Stanford University all recommended resistance bands as one of the most effective pieces of exercise equipment that can help increase bone density through resistance training. Ho said bands are “useful for beginners and those with limited mobility,” while Longobardi explained, “They apply resistance that stimulates bone growth through stress.”
We like this five-pack because all five bands are the same length, but each one has a different resistance level, from extra-light to extra-heavy. “It’s important to begin with lighter resistance, gradually increasing in intensity to prevent injuries,” Longobardi said, advice that Ho echoed.
The bands are made with a durable, elastic fabric that comes in a bunch of colors. You can use the bands for squats, lunges and other exercises.
Promising review: “These are high quality resistance bands. They have a slight texture to them which holds them in place while using them. Purchased after recommended by my physical therapist. Variety of resistance bands in the pack which makes it easy to make exercises easier or harder!” — Austin Nichols
Amazon
A pair of adjustable dumbbells for weight training
Both Ho and Longobardi named adjustable dumbbells as a beneficial equipment option for resistance training. Why adjustable? “While free weights and resistance bands can help stimulate bone growth, it’s important to begin with lighter resistance, gradually increasing in intensity to prevent injuries,” Longobardi said.
Ho added that adjustable equipment is more suitable for long-term use as you slowly up the intensity of your workouts. In other words, adjustable dumbbells involve taking on a higher cost upfront, but you’ll save money later by not having to purchase new dumbbells so soon.
Our pick is this set from Lifepro, which comes in three weight ranges. You just use the sliders to increase or decrease the weight. The dumbbells have a non-slip handle and safety locking mechanism, as well as a storage rack that comes included so you can keep these secure and out of the way.
Amazon
Or this single adjustable dumbbell
If you’d rather start off with one instead of a pair, Target sells a single adjustable dumbbell from their All In Motion brand. This plastic and steel dumbbell goes up to 25 pounds and comes with a similar storage tray.
Promising review: “These are really nice (I bought 2)! I am a beginner with strength training, so I like that these are compact and easy to adjust the weight. Took me a minute to figure out how to use it (didn’t realize the explanation was printed on the actually dumbbells lol) and when I first picked them up one of the plates fell out but luckily I was sitting on the floor. All in all an excellent product and makes me feel confident using weights!” — Teeintee
Recess Pickleball
A pickleball paddle set for beginners
Pickleball has become “America’s fastest-growing sport” over the past couple of years, and it can also help improve your bone density, according to Sellmeyer, who suggested the activity as one type of impact exercise. This is also a great way to work out with family or friends for something a little more exciting than a typical walk or weightlifting session.
This starter set from Recess Pickleball includes two durable fiberglass paddles with sweat-proof handles and three balls. The brand offers tons of color and pattern options, including the fun “Dog Day” doodles shown here, as well as sets with paddle cases, a gym bag and up to eight paddles.
The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)