Burpee vs Step Machine
Which one fits your Cardio workout plan?
Contents
Step Machine burns more per minute than Burpee — MET 7 vs 4. Compare intensity, joint impact, and form for both Cardio options.
Compare the benefits of Burpee and Step Machine and pick the one that fits your Cardio workout.
Burpee vs Step Machine: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Burpee more often — 1,237 sessions compared to 642 for Step Machine.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Burpee and Step Machine differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Burpee and Step Machine Differ
| What differs | Burpee | Step Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | chest, quads, abs, calves, and triceps | quads, hamstrings, and glutes |
| Equipment | bodyweight only | a machine |
| Difficulty | 3 of 5 | 1 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 1,237 sessions | 642 sessions |
How to Do Burpee
Burpee Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Sit upright and place your hands on the front of your feet.
- 2. Stretch your legs back to create a straight line with your body.
- 3. Bring your legs back together and return to the first position.
- 4. Stand up using your leg strength, raise your hands high, and jump.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Engage your abs to keep your lower back straight and prevent lower back pain, making sure your lower back does not arch.
- 2. Be careful not to let your knees come together inward, and if the impact of jumping is too much, just lift your heels.
For a full Burpee guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Burpee exercise guide.
How to Do Step Machine
Step Machine Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Place your foot on the pedal and hold the handlebar while standing.
- 2. Press down on the pedal with one foot at a time to take steps.
- 3. Move in a steady rhythm and do not bend your knees too much.
Coach's Tips
- Be careful not to let your knees go past your toes, and lift your feet completely.
For a full Step Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Step Machine exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Cardio, Burpee or Step Machine?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Cardio, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Burpee and Step Machine work the same muscles?
Not quite. Burpee loads chest, quads, abs, calves, and triceps, and Step Machine loads quads, hamstrings, and glutes.
What equipment do Burpee and Step Machine need?
Burpee needs bodyweight only, and Step Machine needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Step Machine is the easier place to start. Move to Burpee once your form holds up.
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