This $64 mini stepper is great for burning calories at home — and it's backed by more than 14,000 reviews

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The COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the fitness world is ongoing. With many people choosing to opt out of breaking a sweat in gyms (or unable to do so because of local restrictions), home workouts have become a new normal.

Fitness equipment sales increased by more than 170 per cent in 2020, but with most at-home workout gear, like stationary bikes, treadmills and ellipticals taking up significant real estate in the home, many people are on the lookout for space-saving gadgets to get the job done.

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One product that's mindful of space while still allowing you to fit in a workout at home is the Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper with Resistance Bands, on sale through Amazon for 15 per cent off.

Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper with Resistance Bands

SHOP IT: Amazon, $64 (originally $75)

What is it?

The Sunny Health and fitness Mini Stepper Machine with Resistance Bands is a stationary exercise machine that allows you to enjoy a full body workout. The compact unit features an LCD console display that tracks your step count, time, speed and calories as well as textured foot plates to prevent slipping while you move.

The resistance bands are removable to help you intensify your workout and engage core, arm, chest, back and shoulder muscles.

What people are saying

Customer reviews matter — especially when you're making a purchase from Amazon. The Mini Stepper with Resistance Bands by Sunny Health & Fitness has a 4.3-star rating based on more than 14,000 customer reviews.

"This is a fantastic piece of home workout equipment. I use this almost everyday, getting my heart rate up, doing a full body workout using the bands and some of my dumbbells, all the while watching and listening to content on my tablet or phone," one shopper wrote. "It's also easy to put away when not being used. It can get a little squeaky at times due to the heat and friction, but I'm not too bothered and you can use WD40 to make it quiet. Highly recommend."

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Other shoppers have called the Mini Stepper a "surprisingly great" way to get your steps in on days when you're short on time or the weather is preventing you from heading outdoors.

"I’m actually surprised at how good this little machine turned out to be, I had pretty low expectations but my friend really likes hers so I thought I’d give it a shot," another wrote. "Walking on it feels more like speed walking than walking up stairs. I have a different gait than when I walk outside but it’s still a great way to get in extra steps on less active days. I can walk 2.5-3km on it in 30 minutes."

Some shoppers have warned that the mini-stepper might not be ideal for anyone with balance issues, or you may need a wall nearby to help you while you're first getting used to the machine.

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"I needed something small and compact for my living area and the Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper works perfectly for that. I personally find it a bit difficult to use the Resistance Bands, probably something which I will get better in time. Overall, I get a good workout. Highly recommend this stepper for those with limited space or people that just want a small exercise machine."

Verdict

If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to burn a few calories and stay active from home, the Sunny Health Mini Stepper with Resistance Bands might be for you.

The compact and easy-to-use gadget might not have all the bells and whistles and extras of some pricier exercise equipment, but it's a great way to do something good for your body and break a sweat.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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