How to Do Aerobics A Step

Unlike other aerobic step routines, the A step begins with you standing next to the platform rather than facing it. Despite the different start, once you start doing the exercise it will become as familiar as other aerobic step exercises.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Aerobics bench

1. Begin by warming up and stretching. Use the bench to stretch your legs and back. Place alternating feet on top of the bench to do traditional stretches such as hamstring, hip flexors and quadriceps stretches.
2. Start the A step by standing at the back left corner of the bench parallel to the bench facing left so your right leg is closest to the bench. Use your right leg as the lead leg.
3. Step up onto the platform towards the opposite end using the right foot. Make contact with the bench heel first with your right foot, followed by heel first contact with your left. Periodically, check where you position your feet to ensure you have enough room when stepping on the edge.
4. Use your right foot to step down on the other side of the bench so basically you are stepping over the bench but stepping onto the bench at one edge in the middle of your step over. Once you bring your left foot down on the ground beside the right foot, you have made an inverted 'V' or 'A' with your feet.
5. Incorporate or add arm movements to the A step such as the monkey, also known as banana arms, in which one arm goes up while the other is down. Try arm curls. Curl your arms toward your shoulders by bending at the elbows, or punches as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Step down from the platform toe first to distribute your weight and reduce stress to your foot.
• Using arm movements increases oxygen flow and intensifies the workout. If the arm movements are too difficult, perform the steps with your hands on your hips.