Aerobic Twisting Stepper by Brookstone
“1. Insert the rear support into the base.
2. Place the screw plates over the screw holes.
3. Insert the screws into the screw holes.
4. Using the wrench, turn the screws clockwise to tighten.”
Next you have to install the AAA battery in the battery compartment. This is included with the equipment. Finally the resistance cords need to be attached to the hooks on the front of the stepper. You are now ready to use this little machine.
The stepper is really small around 15 inches x 15 inches so you can use it in any room of your house. Make sure that it is on a flat, level surface. It is suggested that you read the instruction/manual book before using the machine. They have 2 pages titled warning and #3 suggests that you warm up before using. It also states that the maximum weight for this exercise machine is 250 pounds. Most of the other warnings are things that are common sense. It also suggests that you wind down your workout at the end.
To start the stepper I just get on it and and start pressing down with my feet. You can press the power button located in the middle, front, of the machine just below the LCD screen which shows steps, calories, and work out time.
I have my stepper in the playroom, which is the bottom half of our townhouse. It is next to the weight bench so I can steady myself by holding on to the bench with one hand while I put my feet on the stepping machine. I then reach down and pick up the resistance cords and steady myself. As I press down on my feet the twisting stepper shifts from left to right. This in turn helps to tighten my thighs and hips while I am stepping and twisting. At the same time I use the resistance cords and pull one up at a time.
I found this extremely hard to do to begin with. I think I managed a minute the first day. I have been using it now for several months and try to do it at least three times a week. I will walk or swim before using it to warm up but if I don’t have time to go out I will use the treadmill instead. It really depends on how I am feeling and how many steps I have already done during the day but the maximum I can do is about 10 minutes. By then my legs are feeling tight and my arms are aching. Some days I struggle to do 5 minutes.
In the instruction manual there are 4 different exercises that you can do with the resistant cords. There are also diagrams showing how to do them.
This machine is really accurate, it is extremely sturdy, and I am pleased that I bought it. It can be stored almost anywhere so you don’t have an excuse not to buy one. The only care and maintenance they suggest is to wipe with a dry cloth after use.
No need to turn off the machine when you are done it will automatically shut off after four minutes without use.
From the box:
“Twisting stepper platform shifts left and right to help tighten thighs and hips as you step and twist.
Stepping motion focuses resistance on all major thigh muscles and buttocks.
Twisting motion helps improve balance and focuses exercise on inner thighs.
For both a strength and cardiovascular workout, curl or raise your arms using the resistance cords as you step and twist your lower body.
Track your progress with the built-in LCD screen displays steps taken, workout time and calories burned.
Compact unit stores easily in a closet or corner of the room, so you get a great workout even with minimal storage or floor space.
Uses one AAA battery (included).”
Brookstone stand behind their products. They state:
“We believe that exacting standards are the core of our success. The Aerobic Twisting Stepper has been thoroughly tested to be certain it meets our rigorous quality control criteria. We stand behind every Brookstone product, promising 100% satisfaction, 100% of the time.
I love this little machine and I can see that it will be around for years to come. I can’t tell you that I am any leaner because of it, or that I have lost weight, because I walk, swim, run up and down the stairs dozens of times a day, as well as playing table tennis. What I can tell you is that the Brookstone Aerobic Twisting Stepper is a great little machine and really does help me keeping fit.
Checking the advertisements in the Sunday newspapers and commercials on television, I see that other brand products that look similar are selling for around $39.99. I have no idea of the quality of them or also how they will stand up over time. Even though I paid a lot more for the Brookstone product, I don’t feel that I was ripped off.
Brookstone.
Merrimack,
New Hampshire 03054.
Customer service 1-800-846-3000.
Check them out at www.brookstone.com
