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Step 1
Arrive early enough to introduce yourself to the instructor and let her know this is your first advanced step class. You can tell her the other classes you've taken so she knows you're not a total novice--but this way she'll know if she needs to explain any usual or advanced moves.
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Step 2
Set up your bench in the front row, as close to the instructor as possible. You might be embarrassed if you make a mistake and worry that you're "stealing" the spots of the advanced step regulars. But you need to be able to see and hear the instructor clearly so you can follow the new moves. The back row is the last place you want to be.
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Step 3
Prepare for your workout by checking your shoes to make sure they are tied and on tight. Tuck a small water bottle under your step bench if you've put risers on, as well as a hand towel. Set your heart rate monitor.
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Step 4
Warm up and enjoy your step class. Try to follow the instructor's moves as closely as possible, but don't worry if you mess up. Even advanced steppers will have trouble following complex choreography from time to time. If you fall behind, just step up and down on your bench in tune with the beat of the music, or do simple steps like knee raises or glute kicks.
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Step 5
Watch the instructor carefully before attempting any moves that could throw you off balance and result in injury, like side lunges, revolve turns or reverse U-turns. It's okay to do steps you know and then ask the instructor for a lesson after class.
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Step 6
Cool down properly with the rest of the class--and tell them you'll see them at the next advanced step aerobics class. With practice, it won't be long before you're a regular, too.
