The goal of step aerobics, of course, is weight management and improved fitness. With only a stair or an elevated platform, you can burn about 10 calories a minute and shape and tone muscles throughout your body. With a portable platform that allows you to adjust step height and add-on weights, you can increase the intensity of your workouts over time.
Close up of women's feet on a workout step in a fitness class. Photo Credit Radu Razvan/iStock/Getty Images.
Engage Your Whole Body
Step aerobics is more than stepping up and down. A good step aerobic workout also uses your arms to get your heart pumping and your core to maintain balance. Routines for some workouts use dance-like movements to make the workout exciting. After you’re done swinging your arms, tapping your toes and twisting up and down, you’ll be back for more.
Cardio and Strength Training
Research consistently shows that the best workout programs combine cardiovascular and strength training. You can combine these exercises into your step aerobics workout by using hand weights. Even ankle weights can help you both burn more calories and strengthen muscles. Don’t rush into adding weight if you’re just beginning a fitness program, however, as it is more important to safely build up your body without wearing it -- or your motivation -- out.
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