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Best Step Platforms

Updated November 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
The Step Original Aerobic Platform
The Step
Original Aerobic Platform
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Timeless Classic
Bottom Line

A dependable, original design, this platform has been used by our fitness expert for years.

Pros

Incorporates numerous features for an optimal workout, such as cushioned nonslip top, nonskid riser platforms, and rugged construction. Tapered platform is easy to grip during upper body and core workouts.

Cons

On the higher end of the price spectrum, but the price is in line with the top quality it provides.

Best Bang for the Buck
Trademark Innovations High Step
Trademark Innovations
High Step
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Best for Small Spaces
Bottom Line

Minimal design and affordability make this ideal for home gyms, says our expert.

Pros

Includes 4 risers for high-step workouts. Combines lightweight construction with a sleek, space-saving design. At 16 x 16", the platform accommodates users with larger feet. Boasts a high weight capacity of 440 pounds.

Cons

Not as sturdy as other models we tested, and a bit too small for some exercises.

Reebok Original Step Platform
Reebok
Original Step Platform
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Trusted Brand
Bottom Line

Our expert notes that this is reliable, simple to use, and has a helpful grip.

Pros

Platform adjusts to 6, 8, or 10" heights. Grippy and textured nonslip surface provides much-needed traction. Easy to clean since it can be wiped down with any nonabrasive cleaner. Stackable with other Reebok platforms for easy storage.

Cons

Some users felt the platform's grippy texture was uncomfortable to hold.

KLB Sport Adjustable Aerobic Stepper
KLB Sport
Adjustable Aerobic Stepper
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Unique Design
Bottom Line

This stepper offers quick and easy height adjustments, and our expert recommends it for beginners.

Pros

Adjusts to 4, 6, or 8", making it ideal for users of all fitness levels. Textured, nonslip surface grips footwear and feet. Set includes rubber feet to secure the platform to floors. Includes quick-start guide with basic step exercises.

Cons

It's not as large as other rectangular steppers, which some users found limiting.

Yes4All Multifunctional Aerobic Deck
Yes4All
Multifunctional Aerobic Deck
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Most Comprehensive
Bottom Line

A durable stepper and weight bench combo that our expert recommends for home gyms.

Pros

Made from high-quality plastic that can hold up to rigorous activities. Supports up to 300 pounds of weight. It is very easy to adjust the height. Can be flat, inclined, or declined for a variety of workouts. Has a foldable space-saving design. The textured top grips well.

Cons

Some users found it uncomfortable when they laid on it during lifts.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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Consulted
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Buying guide for Best step platforms

A step platform is a deceptively simple tool that can be used to work a variety of muscle groups, and owning one means you don’t have to leave your home to get a good workout. Their common applications include aerobics and Pilates, but step platforms offer a variety of ways to exercise and train.

Basic models are simply a raised platform with a grippy surface, while others can be adjusted to a range of heights and angles. Some can even convert into workout benches with attachments like resistance cables. The size of step platforms varies greatly, and choosing the right size for you means considering your available space and what types of exercises you want to perform.

While most step platforms are reasonably affordable, it’s important to consider your needs to find one that will last you for years.

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A step platform is far safer than using the stairs in your home for aerobic exercises. It’s also more versatile because you can step on the platform from several directions.

Key considerations

When choosing a step platform, think about the type of exercises you intend to use it for. If you’re unsure, a basic model that includes a few risers might be a good choice. If you have something more specific in mind, such as weight lifting or abdominal exercises, look for a tool designed specifically for the job.

Adjustability

Many step platforms have a fixed height, but others include risers or other adjusting methods to raise and lower the platform. Risers typically adjust the height in two-inch increments. In most cases, a step platform with risers includes two risers, but some come with more risers to achieve a height of eight inches or more.

Expert Tip
A great cardio or interval workout using a step platform is called later step overs. Adjust the platform to 12 inches high and run laterally as fast as possible for 30 to 60 seconds, followed by an equal amount of rest, and repeated for 5 sets. This exercise promotes agility in the frontal plane (sideways motion) which most adults no longer perform. Neglecting cardio in the frontal plane can lead to many muscle imbalances in the lower body.
BestReviews Fitness Expert

Size

If you have limited space in your home, you might opt for a compact step platform that can be easily stowed away. However, you should bear in mind the impact that size has on safety and the variety of exercises you can perform with your step platform. A bigger surface is a larger target for your feet, reducing the risk of injury.

Circuit: Circuit-size step platforms are generally smaller, though there’s no specific size that defines one as a “circuit” step platform. In general, these are less than 30 inches long. Some are so small that it can be difficult to put both feet on the platform. While a circuit platform might work well for some basic stepping exercises, it’s generally not recommended for abdominal exercises or weight training because the platform can’t fully support your back and neck when used as a bench.

Aerobic or health club: This size step platform is the largest available and is more versatile than circuit step platforms. One of these can be used as a stepping platform or as a bench. In some cases, it can be angled using the included risers. If you have space and hope to use your platform for several types of exercises, this is your best option. These platforms are typically 35 to 45 inches long.

Weight capacity 

Look for a step platform with a weight capacity well above your own weight. Not only will this help you find a platform that doesn’t flex or feel flimsy under your feet but it also gives you a platform that still functions well when you have dumbbells in your hands. Most step platforms can support 200 pounds or more, but some are capable of handling up to 400 pounds. In general, the higher the capacity, the less likely that the platform will flex under your weight.

Grip

Almost any step platform has nonskid feet and some sort of surface to prevent slipping. There are two main types of surface: textured and rubber-coated.

Feet: You should note whether the feet of the platform and risers are nonskid to reduce the chance of injury while exercising. If you do purchase a step platform without nonskid feet, consider placing it on a yoga mat or other grippy surface to provide additional traction.

Textured surface: This typically has grooves that allow your shoes to grip the plastic.

Rubber-coated surface: This is somewhat more reliable and might be more comfortable to use than a textured surface because the rubber provides some cushioning. In addition, stepping and jumping on a rubber surface is generally quieter than on a grooved plastic surface.

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Expert Tip
Front and Lateral Step Ups are two of my favorite exercises when using step platforms. They are great alternatives to squats and lunges, and they promote functional strength training.
BestReviews Fitness Expert

Step platform features

While most step platforms are similar in design, some include additional features and functions that increase the variety of exercises you can perform.  

Accessories

If you’re hoping to pick up some additional accessories, some step platforms include things like dumbbells and exercise balls. Though less common, some models include resistance cables that attach to the platform.

Risers and angled platforms

Take note of the number of risers a step platform includes or whether the height of the platform can be adjusted. Exercising with a higher step usually leads to more calories burned per hour. Some models can also be angled by placing the risers on only one end, allowing you to use the platform for abdominal exercises. Not all step platforms with risers are capable of this, however. The platform and risers should be designed to stay securely in place when the platform is angled.

Exercises

If you’re new to using a step platform, consider looking for a model that includes an exercise booklet or DVD to help get you started. These guides can range from sparse instructions to thorough workouts.

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Expert Tip
You can accomplish a great cardio workout by adjusting the step platform to 12 inches high and performing step running as fast as possible for 30 to 60 seconds, followed by an equal amount of rest, and repeated for 5 sets.
BestReviews Fitness Expert

Step platform prices

Inexpensive

Step platforms that cost $20 to $40 are often circuit size and might not include risers or height adjustment. The surface is often textured, but it isn’t always rubber-coated. The weight limit could be on the low side, too.

Mid-range

Spend $40 to $60 and you’ll find step platforms in a range of sizes, many of which come with a set of risers and have a rubber-coated surface.

Expensive

Many step platforms in the $60 to $120 range include accessories like dumbbells or exercise DVDs. In addition, they might convert into benches for additional weight training exercises. These step platforms almost always have a rubber-coated surface and are highly durable.

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For your safety
The first time you use a step platform, use it without risers or on the lowest setting. As you become familiar with using it, you can raise the surface to increase the intensity of your workout.
STAFF
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Tips

  • Keep the surface of your step platform clean. This will help prevent slipping during workouts.

  • Only use compatible risers to raise or angle your step platform. Using improper risers could result in injury.

  • Opt for a rubber surface. If you plan to use your step platform for weight training or abdominal exercises, a platform with a rubber surface is far easier on your back than a textured plastic surface.

  • Look online for tips and exercises. Not all step platforms include recommended exercises, but there are countless online videos and resources that you can access for free.

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Step platforms aren’t just for leg exercises. They can also be used for working out your core and arms and for stretching.

FAQ

Q. What muscle groups can I focus on using a step platform?

A. Most people think of using a step platform to focus on leg muscles like glutes, calves, and hamstrings, but you can also use one to work your core muscles and even your biceps, triceps, and pectorals.

Q. How safe are step platforms?

A. Due to the low-impact nature of most of the exercises done with a step platform, the risk of injury is fairly low. Most injuries involving step platforms are a result of a platform that’s set too high or improper foot placement.

Q. Can I put a step platform on a carpeted floor?

A. You can, but you make sure that the feet or risers won’t slide as you move onto and off of the platform.

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