Aerobic exercise is one of the best ways to improve your overall health and lose weight as well. This type of exercise takes many different forms, such as running, walking, jumping rope, kickboxing and dance. If you’ve begun to progress past the benefits that regular dance aerobics can provide, you may want to consider increasing the difficulty by adding an aerobic step bench to your workout.
Advantages
Many of your intermediate aerobics classes will include the use of an aerobic step bench. You could go this route, or you can purchase your own and use it at home. Either way, it’s a great addition to your workout. Many people are already familiar with stepping as a form of exercise. Stair climbers and other step machines are quite popular. Adding an aerobic step bench to your routine will give you the cardiovascular workout you’re used to, as well as added attention to your legs and buttocks. This is a great form of strength training and toning for these parts of your body.
This also has an advantage for people who cannot take the stress and jarring associated with other forms of aerobic fitness, such as running and jumping. Although there is some impact, it is considerably less than these other exercises. People who have joint or back problems will find this to be a suitable alternative to running.
Aerobic step benches can be used as part of an aerobic routine, or they can be used as a workout in themselves. The first is called step aerobics, and the second is called bench stepping. One is part of a routine designed for total body workout, and the other is for when you want to focus on that particular part of the body.
Aerobic step benches come in all shapes and sizes. Adjustable height benches are also available to allow you to increase the intensity as you progress. When stepping on the bench, make sure that the entire foot is on the surface. Step close to the platform to prevent over-extending yourself. Another way to avoid injury is by looking at the bench while you are using. This will prevent tripping or turning an ankle by stepping on the edge of the platform.
There are some people that should avoid using aerobic step benches. People who are obese should not risk the stress on their knees and back. Start out with some simple walking to get your body used to activity before moving to aerobic exercise or step aerobics. Obviously, people who have balance problems should also shy away from this type of workout. If you’re not sure whether this type of exercise is for you, the best thing to do is consult your doctor.