How to Choreograph a Step Aerobics Routine

Proper choreography is essential to a step aerobics routine that delivers a good workout. Your knowledge of the different aerobic steps and terminology will help you choreograph a routine that's both fun and good for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Decide on a level of intensity for your workout. Start out slow, particularly if you're coming off a long layoff. If you're a physically fit person trying step aerobics for the first time, dive right in but err on the side of caution.
2. Familiarize yourself with the different step aerobics movements and steps used by professional fitness instructors. These will be the building blocks from which you will choreograph your own routine.
3. Take classes to get used to the tempo and rhythm of a step aerobics workout. Getting loosened up under the tutelage of a qualified and certified instructor will help you learn what works and doesn't work for you.
4. Check your local department, video or sporting goods store for step aerobics workout videos that lay out the choreographed steps in detail. Many videos specific to helping viewers choreograph their own steps are on the market. Ask your workout instructor for recommendations if you're unsure which to get.
5. Know that most step aerobics instructors choreograph their routines to include 32 beats per set. Alternation from the left side of the body (legs and arms) to the right side is essential and should be evenly split among the 32 standard beats.
6. Keep things basic to begin with. A basic 32-beat routine will involve the repetition of several rudimentary 4-step and 8-step moves (such as "basic step" move and the "repeater knee" move). If you have a high-speed Internet connection, you will be able to find websites that offer digital animations of basic moves and routines.
7. Add additional, more complex moves after you master a basic workout. Adjust the intensity level up or down as necessary. Remember that trial and error is the most reliable way to determine where your limits are, what works and what doesn't work for you. Listen to your body. If your joints and muscles are constantly aching, choreograph a routine that's more intensive on footwork than muscle work.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to a doctor before you implement any kind of daily exercise program, particularly if you're over the age of 30 and haven't been physically active for some time.
• Always stretch before working out. It is an essential practice to prevent potentially serious injury.