Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)This review is only preliminary as I have just received the stepper today and I wanted to give others interested in this stepper a little heads up in what to expect.
I was looking for good mechanical stepper that was cut above cheaper version ($50-$100) but not quite industrial gym class.KETTLER stepper is German product and it is very sturdily built.Amazon had the unit delivered via specialized delivery company (CEVA) instead of normal USPS, UPS or Fed Ex. due to its heavy weight.
If you are not mechanically inclined I recommend having experienced handyman person to help you along.The instruction manual is one of the worse I have ever come across.No detailed step-by-step instruction in English.You rely on overly simplistic pictures to muddle your way through assembly.What English there was no more than operational warning.If you're doing your own assembly study the instruction VERY CLOSELY, otherwise you will have big headache building this exerciser.
The training computer that came with this stepper was different than the one pictured in Amazon.I don't know if the version I received was older or newer model.Amazon claim the computer is easy to operate but here again the included instruction was confusing so I haven't programmed yet.
That said, once the stepper was assembled I tried it and I have to say I am pleased.Even in its lowest setting I can feel my leg muscle getting a good workout.I plan to use the equipment every day so if there is any change for the worse I will update this review.The machine come with three year parts and lifetime frame warranty so I take comfort in that.
UPDATE:
If you order and receive stepper with computer console design that is different than one pictured in Amazon be careful if you want to exchange it.
At least in my case I sent Amazon e-mail asking if it was possible to exchange computer console for the one pictured in the website.I honestly thought I will receive reply either exchange is not possible or it has to be complete stepper exchange and whether I would like to do that.
Turns out Amazon procedure is automatic shipment of replacement stepper instead of asking the customer if they want that.Since I had already assembled my stepper I wasn't interested in exchange of another so I called customer service to try to cancel that replacement shipment and found I can't cancel.I had to wait and call back customer service again at a later time and speak with higher up who finally solved the headache I was having.
UPDATE 4/3/10:
This stepper has 12-level adjustable resistance.I am of opinion that the adjustable setting is not that precise.After I got comfortable at level 1 setting, I have tried changing the setting from level 1 to level 2 and then level 3.Initially I noted some change in resistance but as I continued stepping I thought the resistance ease.Because this stepper use hydraulic resistance, temperature change may affect the stepping resistance.
Currently, I am using this stepper one 30 minute session five days out of week.I hope to increasethe time to 60 minutes per session down the road.
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Product Description:
The compact, German-crafted Kettler Power Stepper is a great addition to your home gym, perfect for strengthening your legs and getting an excellent cardio workout all year round. It features two hydraulic cylinders that provide up to 12 levels of resistance, and the independently functioning pedals ensure an ergonomic stepping movement. Individual pedal resistance can be set with the adjustment rings on the hydraulic cylinders. The computer console provides the following data: time, speed, total steps, energy consumption, total height, and pulse rate (ear clip included; compatible with optional chest straps). It has a maximum user weight of 285 pounds.
Manufacturer's Warranty
3 year parts & electronics, lifetime frame
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