I need a new step and need suggestions!

[intensitylisa]

I have had the same "Body Shaping" steps for years. This step is just one level(no risers) and I have two steps I stack on top of one another. I am thinking of puchasing "The Step Home Trainer which includes the "Cathe" "All Step" video. The only thing is I do not think this is a full size step at 29" x 14", and it looks like it only comes with one set of risers. Do any of you own "The Home Step Trainer" I described? Any other suggestions of steps to purchase would be appreciated. Cathe, how about your input? Thanks!;-)

 

[SteppingFool]

I would buy the full size step (not the home version). I think the approximate measurement is 42X16. You can get them at www.fitness1st.com. They carry both colors -- teal/pink or black/gray, and extra risers. If you need a barbell, they also have Troy Lite (the ones Cathe uses in CTX and PH). Have fun!

 

[dogonyx]

Hi Lisa,

I started with a Reebok step and then I got a "The Step" step like Cathe uses. I'm pleased with both purchases. Here's what I like:

The Step -

1.) The surface area on the top is slightly larger than the Reebok step. I always felt like I was "cheating" when Cathe was jumping over the top of a longer step than I was.

2.) It makes a better weight bench because of the larger top and the fact that it's easier to make it incline/decline.

3.) I think it has more "give" than the Reebok step which should be better for your joints. (This is only my opinion.)


Reebok step -

1.) I think it's sturdier than The Step (although I've never had The Step "come apart" on me while working out).

2.) The risers snap onto the bottom meaning I can carry it with one hand. It's really convenient when I need to take it out of the house for working out.

3.) When I go on trips, I can snap the risers into the 4 inch position, place items (i.e., DVD's, VHS's, workout gear, small weights, etc.) into the bottom, slide the step into the original box and all my gear is packed and ready to go.


I hope this helps!

Shelley http://www.millan.net/anims/giffar/ducks.gif

 

[kathryn]

Interesting. I never realized the Reebok step wasn't as wide as the Step Co. step. That means that when we do workouts where the instructor uses a Reebok step, we're actually pushing a bit farther to go from side to side.

 

[Nadine]

IntensityLisa,

I agree with SteppingFool and DogOnyx, go with "The Original Health Club Step", the extra width is better. My Reebok step is 36" long and is a great workout but when I'd be at a club and use the 43" step it'd be just a little better! It can also go 2" lower than the Reebok. (4" minimum vs. 6" minimum) On the other hand, the Reebok can go to 10" (vs. 8") in height right out of the box with no additional riser purchases.

However like DogOnyx said, the Reebok step is EXTREMELY well made, I've had mine for 9 years now and it still looks (and works) as good as day one! I've noticed at the clubs with "The Step" the ribbed rubber across the top eventually comes unglued and starts to curl up making a tripping hazard. But keep in mind those at the club are used constantly, around the clock, not just for 1-2 hours per day.

Of course the decision is yours, based on your area and $$. (Just so you know, if do you decide on "The Step" for the extra length, be sure you order the "Original Health Club" one, not the "Studio Step Professional" because it is shorter - only 28" long)

I keep hoping my Reebok step will break, so I can get the longer one, but alas it is not to be. Hummm... "No honey I have absolutly NO idea how my Reebok step caught fire and melted!".... D*mn thing is probably fire proof too! ;-)
Nadine

~~Happiness is an Attitude~~