StairMaster has been manufacturing exercise machines since the early 1980's and introduced the first StairMaster 5000 at a sporting goods show in the United States, and the stepping trend took the country by storm. Some refer to Stair Master's as a step treadmill since like a regular treadmill it has a rotating surface, but unlike a treadmill's flat running surface, it is shaped like steps.

The StairMaster 6000 was unveiled shortly after its 5000 predecessor, and came complete with a heart rate monitor and display to see workout information. Up until this point, StairMaster treadmills were essentially turning staircases, but in the mid-1980's, StairMaster introduced the 4000 PT model which consisted of two separate pedals which is similar to steppers and climbers that most are familiar with today.

Currently, Stair Master offers two different models of step treadmills.

The Stair Master StairClimber SC916 is a model with two separate pedals. In order to keep the pedals at a constant smooth speed, it is electronically controlled and is patented to ensure a natural, ergonomic stepping movement. This is the type of machine if you are looking for a wide range of workout possibilities as it allows for steps as small as 1” to ones as large as 14.” In order to keep track of your workout, it has the heart rate sensors on the handles, but is also compatible with a wireless heart rate system. It comes with 10 different workout programs and two fitness tests.

The StepMill SM916 is one staircase that has 8” continuous steps. Like the SC916, it is compatible with a TV and has 10 programs, but has three different fitness tests. It is quite a bit heavier than its counterpart (409 lbs vs. 155 lbs) but both come with 3 year parts and 15 year frame warranties.