I have just rebought this item, planning to renew my very sucessful experience with the step program some 10 years ago.
I can honestly say the step was the most effective weight loss program I have ever done and generally I hate excercise so thats saying something.
As for the step itself , I've tried cheaper ones, but they move, split and creak and are not big enough or sturdy enough, this is the original and the best and has never been cheaper than it is now.
I agree with the other reviewer that the DVD that comes with it is rubbish, I think it's the same one they used over 10 years, it's certainly familiar except it was a video then! You NEED a good step program.
I would recommend GIN MILLER's DVD's (google her!) start with the EVERYBODY STEPS, when you get better try her INTENSE MOVES, it might look easy but an hour of that will have rapid affects even at the lower level program, I used to do a hour morning and night at my most enthusiastic but it is NOT advised to do so much, (but when you get rapid results it can be addictive so be careful not to damage yourself) they only suggest 3-4 times a week. Generally use common sense and follow the program and you'll do well.
Highly recommended product.