What is step aerobics? Step aerobics, simply put is the aerobics in which a step or similar stepping device is used. Generally the person exercises to music. Step aerobics entails going up and down on the steps in rhythm with the music.
The height of the steps can be adjusted for added intensity and a greater workout as you become more proficient. The steps are normally between four to ten inches high, with beginners starting with the four-inch step.
The Step adds a different element to your workout by increasing the range of motion of your movements.
The following are the different types of Step classes offered at Kitsilano workout:
Step Only: Jam packed with non-stop choreography, this dance based intense session combines the best of advanced step and hi-lo designed to make you sweat.
Step and Strength: An intense 60 minute circuit class combining step intervals followed by muscular conditioning using heavy hand held weights, tubes and manual resistance.
Step Power Moves: An intense power step and low impact pump cardio, followed by endurance and strength training with tubes and heavy hand held weights.
Step Workout: A cardiovascular class using high impact intervals followed by muscle conditioning on the step.
Extreme Step: A non-stop cardio class using the best of hi/lo and Reebok step choreography. It’s an advanced class for those who love to dance and move. All movement comes from a simple basis but is put together for pure fun and athletic conditioning. Check it out.
Double Step: A unique, fun fat burning step class using two reebok steps side by side. Participants learn easy patterns which travel them back and forth between the steps, so they are working out on one step and then another. This is an intermediate to advanced level class. It will pump up your heart rate, make you sweat, and challenge your muscles with power moves. Kitsilano Workout is the only club in town that offers this class.
What are the benefits of step aerobics? Like regular aerobics step aerobics provides great cardio workout, but using the steps in the routine increases the level of intensity. Benefits of step aerobics include lower cholesterol levels, and increased burning of calories. It also helps to lower the risk of heart disease.
A big plus is the fact that this exercise does not place the joints, especially knees, under intense pressure as does running. This is the reason why step aerobics is called a low impact activity, and has become so popular with fitness enthusiasts. This does not mean that the knees are free from impact, so if you have problems with your knees or hips you may want to go easy on step aerobics.
Because it is low impact, step aerobics does not require that you step too hard when coming off the bench as this will only serve to cause injury.
Wear typical workout gear and a good pair of running shoes. You’ll want to bring a towel and a bottle of water. Kitsilano Workout has cold filtered water available for you to re-fill your water bottles as well!
