Piano rhythms and note patterns can be used to count exercise steps. A traditional piano piece has four beats of music in a pattern. Some notes receive one count, some two and some 1/2, 1/3 or a 1/4 count. Some group exercise classes use 16 or 32 counts of music for a choreographed pattern. Music provides motivation for exercise, but beyond background noise, you can use music to enhance your exercise. Music may also keep you on pace when you select a fast-paced song.
Step 1
Use four counts of music during step aerobics. Count quarter notes, one beat, for each movement. Perform a basic step when you step your right foot on the bench (count 1); left foot onto the bench (count 2); right foot onto the floor (count 3); left foot onto the floor (count 4).
Step 2
Use a piano triplet for dance movements. Count three counts in one beat to perform a cha-cha-cha. March right, left, right for one cha-cha-cha. March left, right, left for the next.
Step 3
Use a half note for kickboxing leg movements. Count two beats for a half note. Lift your leg into a kick for count 1. Return your foot to the floor for count 2.
Step 4
Use an eighth note for kickboxing arm movements. Use the "and" of the beats to perform fast punches. Jab on the beat and the "and" of the beat. Count -- 1, and; 2, and; 3, and; -- as you punch.
Step 5
Use a 16th note for fast running in place. Count -- 1, E, and Ah; 2, E, and Ah -- as you perform four runs per beat. Move your feet fast and keep them close to the floor.
Step 6
Choose music with an upbeat tempo during long-distance running. Listen to music with 140 to 150 beats per minute. Match each footstep to a beat to keep your running pace.
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