New Delhi, April 18 -- It's unfortunate that the stepper is mostly used for calf raises or simply to reach a pull-up bar that's placed too high in the gym. The equipment is designed to do much more than just be stepped over. In fact, you can build entire workouts-or at least key portions of them-around this simple tool, which can be easily bought and stored at home. Think of it as a portable cardio aid: compact in height, versatile in use, and offering adjustable progression.

With summer here, it's the perfect time to burn extra calories without relying too heavily on treadmills or outdoor runs. Knowing how to use a stepper to its full potential ensures you can still break a sweat in the shade. You can also incorporate light dumbbells in...