Step Aerobics

Step aerobics represents one of the most intense forms of cardiovascular exercise. It’s performed by using a raised platform called the stepper or step. There are all sorts of gear items available, but the two main models are the simple and the adjustable steppers. Step aerobics classes are now available with lots of fitness centers and gyms as part of more comprehensive training programs. Yet, you can also train at home with a simple piece of equipment that costs you $100 at the most, in the deluxe format.

It was in 1989 that the concept of step aerobics was first used by Gin Miller, the inventor of the style, and the first platforms used for stepping were manufactured by Reebok. This is the reason why step aerobics move are referred to as Reebok step moves. Dancing games can also be used in combination with step aerobics, and this is the case with In the Groove or Dance Dance Revolution.

If you want to take up step aerobics, you should get familiar with the basic moves in order to be ready to cope with the effort and increase the difficulty gradually. The body posture is extremely important in step aerobics because the correct position prevents back injury and joint trauma. You will first step with one foot then with the other on top of the platform (stepper). Depending on the kind of training routines, the coach can use weight shifting to link the moves or step taps.

Tapping is usually a bit more difficult for people who are not familiar with the basic routines. The instructor needs to pay attention to the way he/she makes the transition, switching moves so that a natural body flow is followed. This takes a bit of planning and foresight on the part of the coach because he/she has to integrate the extra beats correctly and efficiently.

Among the many types of moves specific to step aerobics we can count the T-step, the split step, the I-step, the V-step, the L-step, the over the top, the corner knee, the repeater knee and lots more. Step aerobics is never dull particularly if it makes use of a really good choreography with great music that keeps the exercisers entertained. There are 32 beats in a set, and you need to switch the leg to perform the exercise in a mirrored way. Various sets of different durations are combined in a set depending from case to case.

Aerobics

Intense physical activity that increases the amount of oxygen in the body, the heart beat and stimulates lungs is known under the name of aerobics. Many people also refer to it as cardiovascular training. Whichever be the case, it seems that the optimal physical condition is developed with three or four 30-60 minute aerobic sessions per week. Aerobics should be used in parallel with weight lifting or body weight training.

Time is often a problem because people are so busy or overwhelmed by daily chores which makes them postpone their exercising to a better moment when they have a bit of spare time. But when does that happen? How often do you prefer to start the weekend with housework rather than with exercise? Or has it happened for children to require your attention exactly when you were planning to exercise? You should stop pushing away the needs of the body because your health depends on how often and how regularly you workout.

If you learn about the benefits of aerobics and you constantly remind yourself how important your health and your body-mind condition is, then, self-neglect will no longer be an issue. Aerobics are great for lowering cholesterol, losing weight or fighting depression. Getting real exercise with regularity is in fact a priority, not an occasional treat. I urge you to start planning your routine. Put it into practice just as you have the habit of brushing your teeth twice a day. Patience, persistence and practice!

You don’t even need to take up complex tasks. It suffices to commit to very simple aerobics to actually reap the fruits of physical activity. You can stretch and warm up before walking, running or leaping around in front of the TV. Do it for 30 minutes, cool down, and that’s all. If you have the money to invest in home gym equipment, you can benefit a lot from a rowing machine, a treadmill or a stationary bike.

Instead of watching TV, you can also listen to music or read a book while going through the aerobics routine. But you have to stick to the program of exercising regularly three or four times per week. That’s the best way to stay in a good shape, control your weight and fight old age. Aerobics also improve your capacity to deal with stress and helps you solve sleep problems. Make sure to adjust and balance your diet so as to support the regular training practice

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