My favorite fitness routine besides biking is aerobics with the stepper. This particular class above is using weights with no stepper. Typically in a step aerobics class the participants will have a 3-tier stepper that can be adjusted. The levels are adjusted for experience in stepping or just general preference.

Step aerobics typically involves this 3-tier stepper that is adjustable by removing a level depending on your fitness goals. The top portion has rubber for traction. If you are a beginner in aerobics you may want to start with just one level then build up the steps so its easier to complete an entire aerobics session.

This stepper is identical to the one I have. As you can see, removing the levels or using all three is a great way to strengthen the core by doing planks as illustrated above or modified push-ups.

Benefits of step aerobics

A step workout is a weight-bearing activity. Your body has to work against gravity, which puts stress on muscles and bones. This stress causes them to grow stronger. Stepping up and over the raised platform repeatedly is challenging for the leg muscles. Staying balanced while doing leg moves strengthens the core. Classes also include moves to tone and strengthen the upper body. Having more lean muscle mass boosts your metabolism and makes it easier for you to control weight.

Working with the step can be challenging at first, especially if balance and coordination aren’t strong. But regular step aerobics will actually help improve your balance, agility and coordination, which is important. It’s proven that cardio exercise improves your mood. Step aerobics is typically a group class, which provides social engagement. The music and pace of the class are uplifting, and fun.

Exercising with an aerobic step provides several worthy fitness benefits. The stepping and jumping movements in a step aerobics class challenge your heart and lungs. Your heart rate rises, your breathing becomes more rapid and you begin to sweat. This type of activity challenges your cardiovascular system and makes it stronger over time. Regular cardio exercise such as step aerobics, can help manage or lower high blood pressure and prevent heart disease.

At the workout center, I would typically workout on the bike then when I felt confident enough I would join an aerobics class. The classes meant that you had to keep up with everyone all at the same time. It was a dance routine everyone learned and not everyone was willing to join, but I did and it was super fun. The classes typically lasts an hour. The classes I took did not use weights because I was attending high impact classes. Aerobics is great and super fun!

This article is meant only as a way of sharing what I do for fitness, it is not a recommendation or advice.