Step Aerobics

Step aerobics is an aerobic exercise that is practiced globally by millions of people. Introduced by Gin Miller in 1989, step aerobics is one of the most popular forms of aerobic exercises. The reason behind its popularity is that it offers a great cardio workout without the need for large space or fitness equipment. The only thing needed to perform step aerobics is a flat surface and an aerobic stepping platform.

The main objective of aerobic workout is to increase your body's oxygen consumption. The step aerobics offers a more powerful workout. The other advantage is that it is low impact and doesn't put much strain on the joints as much as running or jogging. The stepping action does not require a great deal of synchronization or intense energy.

Step aerobics is done on a ‘platform' where you step up and down normally to the music beats. The platform or ‘step' provides added boost by integrating the stepping action onto the platform to strengthen the workout. It is recommended that you could not exceed 128 beats per minute (BPM) as this can raise the chances of an injury.

Usually, the platforms or steps used for step aerobics are from 6 to 10 inches, but if you are in good physical condition, you may pick the higher platform for a better workout. There are many companies that sell strong platforms packed with exercise videos and many other extra things. Having a good platform is very important, as it limits your injury chances. Other equipment required for step aerobics include simply proper exercising dress and a fine pair of sneakers. The sneakers should be light in weight and provide good arch hold up and shock absorption.

Before starting your step aerobic routines, it is better to warm up for just about 10 minutes doing stretching exercise and maybe some light jogging. The other important thing is choreography. Many trainers will arrange a set of moves. Classes vary in the choreography level. More advanced classes integrate dance elements such as turns, mambos, and stomps. The common moves in step aerobics include basic step, corner knee, repeater knee, T-step, over-the-top, lunges, V-step, and straddle down.

It is imperative in step aerobics to pay attention to your position and your stepping technique. While performing step aerobic, keep your head up and shoulder back, don't bend ahead from the waist. Many people prefer their ‘step' classes to regular aerobics. If you have problems with your knee or ankle joints, step aerobics may not be the option for your workout.

To begin with step aerobics, you can buy a book, watch a video or join the local gym, or enroll in a class. The beginners can start up with easy exercises like stepping onto the platform and stepping back down again. Step aerobic is easy-to-do at home; there are unlimited number of step aerobic exercise videos, CDs, and DVDs, that make things rather easy for you. The step choreography and routines do not require much space and are easy to do before the television.