About the Stairmaster
StairMaster is the brand name of an exercise machine designed to simulate the act of climbing up a flight of stairs. StairMasters can be found in most gyms, and you can also buy your own for at-home exercise. The workout is fairly high-intensity, and helps to improve balance, cardiovascular health and muscle tone.
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History
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The StairMaster was invented in 1983 by a man named Lanny Potts. It premiered at National Sporting Goods Association trade show, and was owned by the company Tri-Tech Inc. During the next 19 years, the StairMaster design was improved upon and new versions were developed. In 2002, Tri-Tech and the StairMaster products were purchased by Nautilus Inc.
Features
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There are two main types of StairMasters: the StairClimber and the StepMill. Both provide a workout similar to the act of climbing stairs, but the stairs themselves work differently. The StairClimber has two steps that can move separately, while the StepMill has an elevator-like system of steps that move downward automatically, like a treadmill, as you climb up them. In addition to these designs, most machines have handrails and a water bottle holder, as well as a display window that shows calories burned, heart rate, time and distance.
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Benefits
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The StairMaster provides a cardiovascular workout, but the intense stepping motion also works the leg muscles and the glutes. In September of 2008, Swiss researchers at the University of Geneva revealed a study which showed that climbing stairs may reduce the odds of dying young by 15 percent, through loss of body fat, improved lung and heart health and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Correct Form
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The best way to workout on the StairMaster is to vary the speed and style of your steps. Always put your whole foot on the stair, no matter which version you're using: stepping on the tip of your feet and leaning toward the display screen can hurt your back. Try walking sideways; this will work the outer thigh of the higher leg and the inner thigh of the lower leg. Make sure that you walk sideways on both sides to get an equal workout.
Significance
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On May 21, 2007, the Stairmaster was #21 on USA Today's "25 Eureka Moments," a list of inventions from 1982-2007 that have changed American lives.
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Resources
- Photo Credit flickr.com
