Stepping Up the Fitness

When I think of step aerobics, I usually think of an energetic skinny white guy with a '90s afro and annoying voice (I have no idea if Richard Simmons actually did step aerobics, or if he was skinny, but he’s still what comes to mind).

Many aerobic or strength classes use an exercise stair in one way or another, but I had yet to be to a class that was actually based around the step. Turns out, the step wasn’t just for the '90s and is still a thriving and popular means of getting in shape.

The gym room at filled up quickly with people of all ages and sizes and their little green and black step on the floor in front of them, ready for Step & Pump.

A great thing about the step is that you can raise or lower it however you need for the amount of exertion you want. One young woman at the front had three extra risers so she practically had to leap upon the stair for each exercise. Most people only had one riser and if anyone found that too difficult, all the moves could still be done on the floor.

We started out with just basic stepping side to side on the floor, then basic on and off the step. Bit by bit we added new moves—hamstring curls, grapevines, knee raises, etc.—all taken slowly at first and then sped up as people got comfortable. The instructor brought your heart rate up and then let it cool down and then back up again. I appreciated that there wasn’t too much fast off and on of the step, which can sometimes get precarious if you aren’t careful.

About halfway through the class, the “Pump” part of the class came into play and it switched from aerobics to strength training. First there were lunges and knee raises, still using the step. Then we picked up some light weights and added those to the routine, doing shoulder presses, bicep curls, and lunges with weights. Then came crunches and planks, again using the stair.

All in all, it was a fun and uncomplicated class that allowed you to work at your level and raise or lower the intensity as needed. It was no wonder the step still fills up classes.

Remember:

• Have water nearby. There aren’t actual water breaks but plenty of chances to grab a drink if it’s on hand.
• Have comfortable, well fitting shoes. Steadiness and balance on the step is a must.
• Arrive early. The class did get pretty full and you need a little bit of room for your step (which is, of course, provided by the gym).