Aerobic exercises are ideal for developing and maintaining your cardiovascular fitness. Adding step variations into your aerobic workout further enhances the cardio benefits of exercising. Step aerobics simply means that vertical movements are incorporated into a routine with a stepping platform you place in front of you. Step aerobic routines are effective calorie-burners, but you should be aware of what goes into a routine before trying one out.
Intensity
The added element of stepping onto the platform during a step aerobic routine means you'll burn more calories. Just like climbing steps is more strenuous than taking a stroll along a sidewalk, you work harder when consistently moving vertically. This repetitive movement places greater emphasis on your legs and arms, depending on how vigorously you pump them when stepping. The overall intensity of a step aerobic routine should, on average, surpass that of regular aerobics. You should notice a significant difference in your leg muscles and feel a deeper burn after your workout.
High Impact
Step aerobic routines can take a toll on the knees and ankle joints. If you have knee problems, step aerobics may not be the ideal way to get your cardiovascular exercise. An elliptical trainer or exercise bike may be more suitable. The repetitive stepping, which can also take the form of hopping, produces a jarring effect that, over time, can cause inflammation to the ligaments in the knee and ankle joints. Check with your doctor before starting step aerobics.
Basic Step Aerobics Moves
Many of the moves used in step aerobic routines are not that different from standard aerobics, but the stepping platform offer the chance to add variations. Perhaps the most basic step is the step-up. Lead with your right foot and step onto the platform. Follow it with your left foot. Then, step backward with your right foot and follow with your left foot. Another standard aerobic step is the crossover. Step with your left foot across your right foot and onto the platform's right half. Pull your right knee up as you pump your arms. Then, step back with your right foot, followed by your left. Repeat the move to the left side.
Customizing Routines
One of the reasons step aerobic routines are fun and effective is because they are versatile. You can customize the routine with music you like. To a certain degree, the music dictates the intensity of your routine. If you choose fast music, your movements should correspond and match the tempo. You can further customize your routine and make it more challenging by adjusting the height of the step platform. Many step platforms are designed so two or more can be stacked on top of each other. Experiment with the music and step height until you find a level of intensity that suits your ability.
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