July 2009 - Posts
by Diane Mapes, contributing writer
What it is: Stamina inStride Electronic Stepper, $59.99.
What it claims to do: According to the manufacturer, the InStride Electronic Stepper is a lightweight exercise machine that offers a great cardiovascular workout for people who are limited on space. At just 20 pounds, the Stepper can be used anywhere – while watching TV, while on the phone, while at work – and it can even be tucked “into a workout bag to take along.” The machine’s resistance helps work your calves, thighs and buttocks as well as your core, while the aerobic aspect of the stepper “helps you burn calories and fat.”
Our experience: I’ve always had a hard time working out at the gym without some kind of mental stimulation. IPods just don’t cut it for me; I need conversation, a good book or a TV to keep me from thinking about how boring it is walking, striding or bike riding to nowhere. Unfortunately, my new gym is one of those places where everybody’s plugged in and the closed-captioned TVs are all tuned to sports channels.
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