Cardio

Basic step (aerobic step)

Up, up, down, down on a low step — steady low-impact cardio.

Beginner Low impact Step or bottom stair
Movement diagram for Basic step (aerobic step): one foot on the step to standing on the step
Original diagram — start and finish positions.

How to do it

  1. Stand facing a stable step or the bottom stair.
  2. Step up with your right foot, then your left.
  3. Step down with your right foot, then your left.
  4. Keep a steady rhythm, then swap the leading leg after a minute or so.

Form tips

  • Place your whole foot on the step.
  • Stand tall at the top.

Common mistakes

  • Letting your heel hang off the back of the step.
  • Stepping down too far away from the step.

Easier and harder

Make it easier

Use a lower step and slow down.

Make it harder

Pump your arms, raise the step, or add a knee lift at the top.

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