Many people want to develop strong and firm glutes. This is why their workout routines at 9 Round usually involve squats, deadlifts, glute bridges, hip thrusts and other lower body strength training exercises. While strength training is known to be the most effective way to build muscle, there are also cardio exercises that can complement these workouts.
Among the most popular options are the stair climber and walking on an incline treadmill. But which one is more effective for building glute muscles? Let’s find out.
Stair Climber Benefits
If you’ve ever used a stair climber machine, such as the Stairmaster, you’re familiar with its ability to simulate an endless flight of stairs. Here are some key benefits associated with using a stair climber:
Trains Functional Movement – Incorporating a stair climber into your workouts helps develop the muscles needed for everyday activities involving stairs, steps, and curbs. It prepares your body to execute these movements correctly and can be beneficial for maintaining functional muscle mass as you age.
Improves Mobility – Unlike walking on a flat surface or moderate incline, the stair climber requires your lower limbs to move through a greater range of motion. This helps improve or maintain joint mobility, allowing for more flexibility and ease of movement.
Builds Lower-Body Strength – The stair climber not only provides an excellent cardiovascular workout but also helps build strength in your glutes, hamstrings, and quads. It can be more effective at building muscle compared to walking or other forms of cardio. Additionally, you can modify your foot placement on the stair climber to target specific lower-body muscle groups.
Incline Treadmill Benefits
While both the stair climber and incline treadmill walking involve climbing in place, incline walking engages different muscle groups and offers unique benefits.
Low-Impact Workout – Incline walking, like walking in general, is a low-impact exercise where one foot stays on the ground at all times. Compared to the stair climber, incline walking is typically more comfortable for individuals with knee pain or joint issues. The impact on your joints is reduced due to the slope of the treadmill.
Improved Cardio Capacity – Incline walking on a treadmill is excellent for boosting the efficiency of your cardiovascular system. The elevated incline increases your heart rate, making it an effective exercise for endurance and improving your cardio baseline. Incorporating hill repeat intervals can further enhance your conditioning.
Increased Core Strength – Incline walking engages your core as you slightly lean forward during the exercise. By maintaining proper form and avoiding hunching or leaning on the handrails, you can activate your core muscles and alleviate pressure on your lower back.
Choosing Between the Stair Climber and Incline Walking
Now that we’ve explored the benefits of both options, let’s consider how to select the right option based on your goals and circumstances:
For beginners or those seeking a gentler cardio workout, incline walking is generally more accessible and less intimidating than the stair climber. You can start with shorter durations and slower speeds, gradually increasing intensity as you progress.
If you experience shin splints, it’s best to avoid walking uphill on the treadmill. The constant dorsiflexion of your foot during incline walking can exacerbate shin pain. In such cases, the stair climber provides a low-impact alternative.
Individuals with balance issues or coordination challenges may find incline walking to be a safer option than the stair climber. The elevated nature of the stair climber increases the risk of falling if balance or coordination is compromised. It’s important to prioritize safety and work on improving balance and coordination skills before attempting the stair climber.
If you’re training for outdoor adventures like hiking, incline walking can be highly beneficial. It helps develop the specific muscles needed to navigate challenging terrains, such as uneven surfaces, low-hanging branches, and slippery paths. By engaging stabilizing muscles in your lower body, incline walking prepares you for the demands of outdoor activities.
If your primary focus is on building lower-body strength and specifically targeting glute muscles, the stair climber may be the better choice. It offers the advantage of building muscle mass, especially in the glutes, hamstrings, and quads. By varying your foot placement and stride on the stair climber, you can specifically target different muscle groups.
In the end, the choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and goals. Consider factors such as comfort, existing injuries or conditions, balance and coordination abilities, and desired outcomes. It’s worth noting that incorporating a variety of exercises and cardio options into your routine can provide well-rounded benefits and prevent boredom.
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