How to Do Step Exercises

Step exercises are a quick and easy way to tone leg muscles, provide an aerobic workout, and increase respiration and circulation. The only thing required to perform step exercises is a raised platform between 4 and 12 inches high. The higher the platform, the more difficult the exercises will be. These basic step exercises will get you started on your way to a healthier life.

Things You'll Need

• Raised platform

Instructions

1. Begin with the basic step exercise. Place your left foot onto the raised platform, followed by the right foot. Ensure that the entire foot is on the platform. Then, step off, one foot at a time starting with the left. Perform 3 sets of 15 repetitions.

2. Perform the "V" step exercise once you can easily perform the basic step. Start with both feet together in front of the raised platform, and directly in the center. Place your left foot on the platform, as far to the left as possible. Repeat for the other foot, placing it as far to the right as possible. Step down one foot at a time, returning the feet to the center. Perform 2 sets of 10 repetitions.

3. Execute the knee lift exercise by performing the basic step exercise, while additionally raising the knee as high as possible during each step. The first time, step up with your right foot, then follow with the left. Step up with the left foot first the second time. Continue to alternate for 3 sets of 15.

4. Do the side lift step exercise by stepping up with the right foot and moving your body up onto the platform. Instead of stepping with the left foot, raise your left leg to the side as far as possible, without creating too much muscle tension, and then return it beside the right foot. Step down right foot first, and repeat, using the left foot and right leg. Do 2 sets of 10 repetitions.

5. Perform the hamstring curl step exercise next. Place the right foot onto the step and lift yourself up onto the platform. Instead of stepping with the left foot, bend at the knee and touch your buns with your foot. Return the foot to the platform beside the right foot and step down. Repeat, stepping with the left foot and curling the right leg. Perform 2 sets of 10 repetitions.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time when performing these exercises. The goal is to work the muscle, and slower exercises are better for this. Going too fast can cause a missed step and can cause you to fall and seriously injure yourself.