Stairs are one of the most common barriers people face when they return home from hospital or try to stay independent as they age. Front steps, a split-level house, a step into the shower, getting on the bus. If someone can't manage stairs confidently, their world gets smaller very quickly.
That's why stair practice is a core part of rehab for so many clients, from post-surgical and neurological patients to older adults working on falls prevention. The challenge for many clinics and aged care facilities is space. A full set of training stairs can feel like a big commitment in a small gym. The TheraKit exercise training stairs range was designed with that in mind.
Why stair training is worth the floor space
Practising stairs in a controlled setting lets clients rehearse the real task with the support they need, before they face it on their own. Stair training helps with:
- Strength and power: stepping up loads the quads, glutes and calves in a very functional way.
- Balance and control: stepping down is often harder than stepping up and needs good eccentric control.
- Confidence: repeated, safe practice reduces fear, which is a big factor in falls and in whether people stay active.
- Discharge readiness: for many hospital and rehab clients, being able to manage stairs safely is part of getting home.
Choosing the right configuration
The biggest decision is the layout, and it mostly comes down to the room you have.
Straight up and over
The client walks up one side, across the top and down the other. It feels like a real flight of stairs and suits continuous practice, including group circuits. The TheraKit S32F has 3 stairs up at 100 mm and 2 stairs over at 150 mm, giving you a lower and a higher step height in the one unit so clients can progress.
Dead end
The client walks up, turns at the platform and comes back down the same way. Because you only need access from one end, a dead end unit can sit against a wall, which makes it a practical choice for tighter spaces. The TheraKit D40F has 4 stairs up and back at 150 mm.
Single or dual handrails
Both the S32F and D40F are available with a single handrail or dual handrails. Dual handrails give clients support on both sides, which suits people early in their rehab, those with hemiplegia who need to lead with a particular hand, and many aged care residents. A single rail keeps the unit more open and suits clients who are progressing towards independent stair use.
The TheraKit stairs range at a glance
- TheraKit S32F Straight Up & Over (single handrail): 3 up at 100 mm, 2 over at 150 mm.
- TheraKit S32F Straight Up & Over Dual Handrail: same layout with rails on both sides.
- TheraKit D40F Dead End (single handrail): 4 up and back at 150 mm.
- TheraKit D40F Dead End Dual Rail: same layout with rails on both sides.
- TheraKit Base Straight Up & Over: a lighter-duty option that's ideal for home use.
The 760 Timber Series units (S32F and D40F) have solid timber handrails on powder-coated steel supports, non-slip treads, a reinforced plywood base and a 250 kg weight capacity. The Base model has a 150 kg capacity.
Where they fit
Aged care and retirement living: stairs are a simple, familiar exercise that supports strength, balance and confidence, which all feed into falls prevention. Dual handrails are usually the right call here.
Hospitals and rehab clinics: stair practice is a key part of discharge planning. A straight up and over unit works well in a larger gym, while a dead end unit can tuck against a wall in a smaller space.
Home and NDIS: the Base model gives participants a way to keep practising between therapy sessions.
Need help choosing?
Not sure which layout will fit your space or your clients? Browse the full TheraKit stairs range or call the Rehab Technology team on 1300 60 99 50 and we'll help you work it out.
