Step Aerobics: The Ultimate Guide. All you Need to Know [Must Read]

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Step Aerobics

Developed in the 1980s, step aerobics remains one of the top methods for weight loss and calorie burn.

Not only does it top the list of the most effective workouts, but it is a fun and groovy way to tone the lower body and melt away fat. It is a great opportunity for both men and women of all ages and fitness levels to maximize their health and improve overall wellness.

A new study finds that when balancing time commitments against health benefits, aerobics training is optimal for reducing fat and body mass.

A basic one-hour step class is designed to increase your heart rate, strengthen your core and tone your arms and lower body. With some simple adjustments, intensity levels can be increased, providing a powerful boost to your workout.

Read Related: Importance Of Arch Support In Aerobic Exercise Shoes

What is Aerobic Exercise?

aerobics 1

The word aerobic literally means “with oxygen” or “in the presence of oxygen.” Aerobic exercise is any activity that uses large muscle groups, can be maintained continuously for a long period of time and is rhythmic in nature.

Therefore, an aerobically fit individual can work longer, more vigorously and achieve a quicker recovery at the end of the aerobic session.

Best Aerobics Shoes For Women

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe

ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe

  • Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
  • Removable Sockliner: A sockliner which can be removed to accommodate a medical orthotic.
  • Removable Sockliner: A sockliner which can be removed to accommodate a medical orthotic.
  • Trail Specific Outsole: Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain.
  • AHAR Outsole: Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
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Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer

Ryka Women's Influence Cross Trainer

  • BEST FOR: Dance fitness + Low-impact workouts
  • PERFORMANCE TECH: N-Gage energy return foam for shape retention + cushioning on impact
  • MADE FOR WOMEN FIT: Designed for a woman’s unique foot shape with a narrower heel, roomier toe, and softer foot cushioning
  • MATERIALS: Breathable mesh with faux leather overlays for extra durability + Padded heel for extra cushioning
  • OUTSOLE: Ergonomically-shaped rubber sole for extra durability where you need it most + Pivot Point for smooth and easy turns
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New Balance Men's 520 V7 Running Shoe

New Balance Men's 520 V7 Running Shoe

  • Stylish synthetic upper
  • Soft midsole for comfort
  • Molded heel to help provide support
  • Rubber outsole for durability and traction
  • Lace closure ensures a secure fit
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New Balance Women's 577 V4 Cross Trainer

New Balance Women's 577 V4 Cross Trainer

  • Leather upper
  • Lightweight cushioned midsole
  • NB ultra soft comfort insert
  • Rubber outsole
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Nike Mens Free Run 5.0 CZ1884 001

Nike Mens Free Run 5.0 CZ1884 001

  • Nike
  • Mens Shoes
  • Athletic Shoes
  • Black/White
  • Synthetic & Rubber
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Ryka Women's Vida RZX

Ryka Women's Vida RZX

  • RE-ZORB high impact cushion in the heel & Ultra Flex forefoot; the best in cushioning and flexibility
  • Breathable mesh with supportive synthetic overlays
  • Rubber outsole with pivot point and strategic flex grooves
  • Anatomical Precise-Return footbed
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PUMA Men's Tazon 6 Fracture FM Cross-Trainer Shoe

PUMA Men's Tazon 6 Fracture FM Cross-Trainer Shoe

  • Run-Train performance sneaker
  • Tazon
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Under Armour Men's Micro G Assert 6 Running Shoe

Under Armour Men's Micro G Assert 6 Running Shoe

  • Upper uses light, supportive foam underneath a soft layer of breathable mesh
  • Durable leather overlays for stability that locks in your midfoot
  • Full length EVA sockliner for added comfort & a custom fit
  • Full length Micro G foam turns cushioned landings into explosive takeoffs
  • Strategically placed rubber traction covers high impact zones for greater durability with less weight
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ALEADER Men's Mesh Slip On Water Shoes

ALEADER Men's Mesh Slip On Water Shoes

  •  
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ALEADER Men's Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

ALEADER Men's Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • Breathable and durable air mesh upper allow the foot to breathe
  • Solyte midsole provides an exceptionally lightweight midsole with excellent bounce-back and durability
  • Water Drain outsole provides exceptional traction in wet and slippery conditions
  • ComforDry sockliner provides the optimum cushioning performance that creates a cooler, drier and healthier shoe environment.
  • Open mesh on the upper and hole on the sole provides for superior breathability and quick drying
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Reebok Men's Nano 9 Cross Trainer

Reebok Men's Nano 9 Cross Trainer

  • Flexweave woven textile upper provides resilient stretch and targeted support at key performance areas
  • Designed for: CrossFit workouts, cardio, lifting sessions
  • Low-cut design for quicker foot transitions
  • Midfoot cage for lightweight seamless support
  • Polyurethane NanoShell protects the midsole from abrasion and helps support during heavy lifts
  • Decoupled, abrasion-resistant rubber outsole allows for training on varied surfaces; Flex grooves for increased flexibility
  • TPU heel clip adds rearfoot stability
  • Women Size Down 1.5 sizes for fit
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Reebok Men's CROSSFIT Nano 8.0 Flexweave Cross Trainer

Reebok Men's CROSSFIT Nano 8.0 Flexweave Cross Trainer

  • Cushioned sole
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Forefoot flex grooves for flexibility
  • Low-cut design for added mobility
  • Toe Tection provides durability in the toe area for high intensity workouts
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Ryka Women's Tenacity Cross Trainer

Ryka Women's Tenacity Cross Trainer

  • Synthetic and breathable mesh
  • RE-ZORB footbed.
  • Dual foam midsole engineering provides extra cushioning at key pressure points in forefoot. I.H.G. clip provides stability in heel.
  • Rubber outsole with pivot design offers traction and allows for easy transitions from one dance move to the next.
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Nike Free Metcon 2 Mens Aq8306-002 Size 7

Nike Free Metcon 2 Mens Aq8306-002 Size 7

  •  
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Capezio Women's Studio Shoes

Capezio Women's Studio Shoes

  • Split-sole design, Non-marking PU outsole with built-in patented flex points and forepart spin spot, and Flat, boxed toe for toe stands
  • Combination PU Nubuck and imitation suede upper combined with breathable SBR nylex mesh
  • Perforated arch for ventilation, Padded tongue, collar and Achilles notch, and Contoured, cushioned, removable EVA footbed
  • Polyester cotton laces with sport lace system
  • Women: Begin 1 size up from street shoe size. Men: Begin 2 sizes up from street shoe size.
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Best Aerobics Shoes For Men

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
PUMA Men's Tazon 6 FM Puma

PUMA Men's Tazon 6 FM Puma

  • Synthetic leather upper
  • Midfoot saddle for maximum fit
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Nike Legend Essential 2 Men's Running Training Shoes

Nike Legend Essential 2 Men's Running Training Shoes

  • Nike Legend Essential 2 Men's Running Training Shoes CQ9356 005 size 12 US
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Health Benefits of Aerobics Exercise

Engaging in regular moderate to intense exercise has many health benefits, ranging from weight loss, strength building to cardio conditioning. Adding step classes to your routine can up the ante in terms of these health benefits.

Health beneficts of aerobics 1

1. Weight loss

Step aerobics burns calories at a rate of up to 1000 calories burned per hour for a step workout, making it one of the most efficient exercise classes on the market. Burning an additional 3500 calories each week, or 500 per day, can help you lose approximately 4-5 lbs a month. And that is a huge gain – your secret to weight loss recipe.

2. Increased heart rate

Because of the movements and height of the step, this type of workout helps increase the heart rate, which moves blood and oxygen into the muscles and organs of the body and strengthens the heart.

Do you know your estimated target heart rate?

3. Improved muscle tone and strength

The up-and-down patterns of steps engage the muscles of the legs and the glutes, causing them to contract and release with each movement. This engagement not only makes the muscles stronger, but it causes them to tone up. The bonus is the more muscle tone you have, the more calories you burn.

4. Lowers blood pressure

Regular cardiovascular exercise makes your heart strong, which in turn makes it pump blood more efficiently with less force, reducing the pressure on your arteries, and reducing your blood pressure.

Research has shown that regular physical exercise reduces blood pressure and is broadly recommended by current American and European hypertension guidelines.

5. Reduced risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease

There are several benefits of aerobics exercise. However, your cardiovascular health remains the number one beneficiary of regular aerobics or cardio exercises.

In fact, for people with, or at risk for, heart disease, physical activity especially aerobic exercise is recommended by the American Heart Association.

Regular intense exercise reduces the risk of stroke by nearly 30% while reducing the five risk factors of cardiovascular disease, including obesity, high blood pressure and poor blood panel results.

6. Improved mental health

Step classes are fun and highly social, which has been shown to help with mood improvement.
It can also reduce anxiety and depression, which are often triggers to a sedentary lifestyle, which can increase health risk factors.

Aerobic exercises, including jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, gardening, and dancing, have been proved by research to reduce anxiety and depression.

7. Improved skills and functionality

Because the step requires coordination and agility, it can improve overall functionality. This can lead to more capability in doing things you love, a longer lifespan and improved feelings of overall wellness.

Step Aerobic Moves

Step aerobics requires a little coordination, so it is always best to practice the basic moves before registering for your first step-a-thon.

Steps aerobics 1

Best  Aerobic Exercise Workout Step Platform

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
The Step (Made in USA) Original Circuit Size Aerobic Platform

The Step (Made in USA) Original Circuit Size Aerobic Platform

  • Made in the United States from durable, recyclable high-density polyethylene
  • Circuit-size (28. 5" L x 14. 5" W x 4" H) aerobic platform, 4 original risers, and streaming videos
  • Platform features grooved, nonslip top and supports up to 275 lbs
  • Four nonskid feet on each riser and platform prevents sliding or scratching floors
  • Vary workout difficulty by adjusting platform height from 4" to 6" to 8" using risers
Check Price On Amazon
The Step (Made in USA) Freestyle Aerobic Platform

The Step (Made in USA) Freestyle Aerobic Platform

  • Made in the United States from durable, recyclable high-density polyethylene
  • Circuit size (28.5” L x 14.5” W x 4” H) aerobic platform, 2 freestyle risers, and streaming videos
  • Platform features grooved, nonslip top and supports up to 275 lbs
  • Nonskid feet on each riser and platform prevents sliding or scratching floors
  • Intensify and diversify your workout using freestyle risers in a variety of slated positions
Check Price On Amazon

Basic step aerobics moves

1. Basic Up, Down – stepping up onto and down from the step in a pattern format facing the front of the step. If the left foot leads, it is a Basic Left. If the right foot leads, Basic Right.

  • Left foot up
  • Right foot up
  • Left foot down
  • Right foot down

2. Turn Step – stepping onto the step platform in the same pattern as the Basic Up,
Down, but adding a small direction change, creating a “U” pattern. The pattern can be created to form either a wide “U” or a narrow “U”.

  • Left foot up, turning body to the left at an angle
  • Right foot up, still at an angle
  • Left foot down, facing the left
  • Right foot down, facing the left
  • Reverse the pattern to flow in the other direction

3. L-Step – stepping onto the step in the same pattern as the Basic Up, Down, but doing so moving towards the edge of the step and then stepping off to the side of the step instead of back down in the front of the step, drawing an “L” shape.

  • Left foot up at the left edge of the step
  • Right foot up at the left edge of the step
  • Left foot down, off of the left side of the step
  • Right foot down, off of the left side of the step

e. Reverse the pattern to return to the front of the step… Repeat on the right side starting with the right foot.

4. T-Step – facing the end of the step instead of the front, this move is similar to the Basic Up, Down with the step down on either side of the step and then back up creating a “T” shape.

  • Left foot up while facing the end of the step
  • Right foot up while facing the end of the step
  • Left foot down, off of the side of the step
  • Right foot down, off of the other side of the step (straddle the step)
  • Reverse the pattern back up onto the step and then back to starting position.

Step Aerobics Moves PDF

Of course, step aerobics revolutionized the fitness industry when it was introduced in the late 1980s and it is still relevant today.

Apparently, you may be a beginner, an intermediate, or an advanced user, this step training guideline would be perfect for you. Here you are with a step aerobics moves pdf to for assistance. Especially fitness professionals who teach step aerobics classes.

Intermediate and Advanced Movements

Once the basic movements are mastered, adding hand movements into your routine or adjusting the step height can quickly change the intensity of the workout. For more advanced steppers, there are step patterns that can be used to enhance the experience even more.

1. Up and Over

From a basic L-Step, you would step across the step, moving to the other side instead of returning the front of the step. This movement can also be performed.

2. A-Step

Similar to the Basic Up, Down, but facing the end of the step like a T-Step and drawing an upside “V” as you step up and down towards the other end of the step.

3. Knees

Single knee or repeater knee on the step is accomplished during the Basic Up, Down, however, instead of the foot coming up onto the step, the knee is lifted towards the chest and then returns to the ground.

4. Kicks

Single kicks or repeater kids on the step can be done in place of single or repeater knees.

5. Plyometrics

By jumping onto or off of the step instead of stepping up, you can increase the intensity and impact of the workout.

Step Aerobics for Beginners

Because using the step can require a basic level of coordination, there are many people who shy away from it. Finding a beginner’s class and remembering these basic beginner tips can help anyone step up for the first time.

1. Always maintain an upright position, keeping your shoulders back and chest high to protect your back and help prevent tripping.

2. Keep your hands on your hips throughout the class, and through your first few workouts, focusing on mastering the foot movements.

3. Step lightly on the platform. Do not stomp or pound your foot into the step. Stepping as light as a feather ensures your core is engaged.

4. Do not use risers for your first few classes, no matter how tempting.

5. Maintain one foot on the floor at all times, also known as low-impact aerobics.

6. Step aerobics for seniors is similar to beginners but may require a few additional modifications such as removing the step platform altogether or providing a chair in front of the step, allowing for foot and hand movements without the risk of falling.

7. Note that modifications can be made to allow for adaptation. Taking the movements to a flat surface or keeping them at their most fundamental level are two very simple ways of ensuring beginner’s success for all levels.

Intermediate Step Aerobics

After the mastery of the basic step movements, you will quickly advance to an intermediate level where you will be pushed to the edge but maintain the security of knowing the basic moves.

In fact, most step classes are geared towards the intermediate stepper but don’t fear. Intermediate-step aerobics routines are similar to those of beginners and can be adjusted at any point during the workout.

1. Learning to coordinate arm movements with basic foot movements will increase the intensity and create more options.

2. You may begin to see moves like repeaters or going up and over the step. Don’t worry, you can always return to the basics.

3. Adding a riser to elevate your step can also take things up a notch. If it’s too much, you can always take it down again.

Advanced Step Aerobics

One of the greatest results of step is its ability to challenge even the most advanced of athletes in all areas of endurance. Advanced step aerobics provides maximum opportunities to get shredded.

1. Plyometric moves can be incorporated into basic routines, challenging power, speed
and endurance. This means jumping onto and off of the box, jumping around the box, hopping up during kicks and knee raises and other movements that take both feet off of the floor at a single point in time. Jumping improves power and advanced athletes strive for power.

2. A step workout with weights increases muscle endurance, tone and even maximum calories burned after the workout has ended, or the EPOC. This can be done with hand weights such as dumbbells, or by the addition of kettlebells or resistance bands.
Weights can be used while stepping or the bench can be used to perform strength training movements such as chest press or push-ups.

3. With the addition of several risers, you can increase the step height of the platform, creating a heart-rate blasting experience that is truly not for the weak. Extra care should be given, as the higher the step, the greater the risk of tripping and falling.

Different Styles of Step Aerobics

There are many styles of step aerobics available, along with options for locations and mediums to participate. Step aerobics choreography can be simple or advanced and accomplished in a classic gym setting or in the comfort of your own home.

1. Step aerobics at home is an option for those who do not enjoy the gym environment, or who prefer their workouts in the comfort of their own space. Video, satellite and phone apps provide a wealth of opportunities that allow for home success. All you need is a step or something that can be used as a step.

2. Double-Step is when two-step platforms are used for each participant, creating a highly challenging workout for both the intermediate and advanced stepper. Coordination is a must, however, the movements can be done both high or low-impact.

3. Hip Hop Step Aerobics is sweeping the nation, targeting all levels from beginner to advanced, although advanced steppers will certainly find a respectable workout!
Choreographed to super upbeat music, this high-intensity, high-impact extreme workout will leave you feeling as if you stepped off of a stage performance. A fun and energetic way to groove off maximum calories.

Aerobic Stepper: The Good and Bad

All exercises come with pros and cons, and step aerobics is no different. Although step is a great workout, providing both efficient and effective results, it is not for everyone.

Steps aerobics pro n con 1

Step aerobic pros:

1. Fun, social and allows you to have fun moving to the music.

2. Calorie burn of 1000 calories per hour.

3. Muscle strength and endurance development, increasing functionality and metabolism.

4. Core conditioning, improving posture and abdominal strength.

5. Improved tone in the legs, arms and butt.

6. Many health benefits, including lowered blood pressure and lower rates of depression.

7. Improved power, agility, speed, coordination, endurance, accuracy and other skills affiliated with functionality and athletic performance.

8. Excellent training modality for cyclists, and runners, that cross-training

Step aerobic cons:

1. It requires a basic level of coordination.

2. The heart rate rises rapidly, so attention to heart rate is essential.

3. Those with knee, hip, ankle and back issues require monitoring and modifications as deemed necessary.

4. Increased risk for injury due to trip hazards.

5. Not appropriate for those in the late trimester of pregnancy due to weight shifts.

6. Not ideal for individuals with balance issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

HOW MANY CALORIES DOES STEP AEROBICS BURN?

300 calories every 30 minutes on average. If each move is performed at maximum height and intensity, an individual can burn up to a thousand calories during a one-hour class. Calorie burn is dependent upon step height, intensity, age, weight and gender.

CAN YOU LOSE WEIGHT DOING STEP AEROBICS?

Yes. Aerobic activity that increases the number of calories burned or increases the metabolism can assist in weight loss. Adding step aerobics 3 times a week to your weekly routine holds the potential of 1-2 pounds lost each week by itself.

WHAT MUSCLES ARE USED IN STEP AEROBICS?

The heart muscle; the quads, hamstrings, inner thigh and calves, all of which make up the legs; the glutes, including the Maximus, medius and minimus, all of which make up the entire butt; the core muscles, including the abdominal and the back muscles; the arms, shoulders and upper back.

IS STEP AEROBICS BAD FOR YOUR KNEE?

No. Any movement performed with inappropriate form can result in injury, including repetitive high-impact movements. If you have ongoing joint issues or knee pain, it is always best to speak to your healthcare provider prior to engaging in any activity.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I DO STEP AEROBICS?

No more than 3 times per week, although twice a week is a safe bet. Doing step aerobics 4-5 times a week can increase your risk of repetitive motion injury and other problems.

ARE WATER AEROBICS AND STEP AEROBICS CARDIOVASCULAR EXERCISES?

Yes. Any exercise that uses oxygen to access energy is considered aerobic. That includes walking, jogging, swimming and step aerobics. Step aerobics will get your heart rate elevated much faster than water aerobics and also provide a more efficient calorie burn.

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AUTHOR
Under training to become your personal trainer of choice. If Nelson is not busy producing awesome content to improve your mental, physical health and wellbeing, he’s probably sweating it out at the gym or watching Arsenal break hearts. A salesman and digital marketer , an avid reader, plays tennis and adventurous. He’s a disciple of self-development and follows everything fitness religiously.

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