Sunny’s Twist Stepper with Handlebar elliptical is a handy machine to use when you’ve skipped the gym or need a quick energy surge at the office. It’s not designed for heavy use and lacks the basic programming that’s found on most home ellipticals. Still, it scores pretty well for a cheap workout machine because it’s inexpensive and gets positive customer reviews for what it is – an inexpensive and even fun back-up means of getting cardiovascular exercise. Online prices for this product have ranged from about $90 to $150.
Elliptical Hits: Best Features of the Sunny Twist Stepper Elliptical
- Small size – This machine’s footprint is just 47” long and 26” wide. That’s small, yet the base is large enough to support smaller people without wobbling. When folded for storage, this unit measures about 18” x 26” x 47”.
- Adjustable incline – The incline can be manually adjusted up to a 10% grade. Exercising on an incline is a great way to speed up the metabolism and exercise different muscle groups.
- Useful readouts – The monitor displays distance traveled, time spent exercising, speed, and an estimate of calories burned.
Elliptical Misses: Why to Walk on By
- Cheaper components – This machine has a steel frame and a double flywheel. Still, it’s made in China and costs about 1/8 the price of a more serious home elliptical. It can’t be expected to endure for long and is reputed to be very squeaky.
- Lack of programming – Unlike virtually all other elliptical trainers, this unit lacks programming to guide workouts.
- Manual adjustments – The resistance must be adjusted manually, so it’s not easy to change resistance in the midst of a workout. Also, the speed cannot be adjusted electronically; it depends entirely upon the user’s efforts.
Overall Rating for the Sunny Twist Stepper with Handlebars
This is a fun little invention, but it can’t compete with full-sized home elliptical trainers. Sunny’s Twist Stepper is best for light use, such as a few minutes of exercise to get the metabolism boosted each morning. Most customers would recommend this product to a friend.
