Another step heigh question...

[JustMe]

I did BodyMax tonight and I managed to make it thru with my step at 6 inches. But, I could not do all the jumping and impact movements. Had to modify a lot. Which is better...your step at 4 inches with all impact...or 6 inches with modifcations.

What do you guys think provides the better workout? Either way my heart rate is up there...............Jodi

 

[starlight6]

Interesting question...

 

[JustMe]

Really hoping to get some opinions on this.....

 

[Bobbi]

How did you feel when you did it? Did one workout surpass the other as far as intensity? I think I'd go with a lower step and intensfy the moves because I get trippy when the step is too high.

Bobbi http://www.plauder-smilies.de/chicken.gif Chicks Rule!

 

[susan-lynn]

After 6 years of stepping, sometimes I can use 2 risers, sometimes only 1 (e.g. Powermax)- depending on the intensity level and instructor, because when the routine is more high impact or has lots of 'twists and turns', I tend to trip if the step is too high. When I used to attend step classes at the gym, a couple of instructors used to say that using more risers/higher step doesn't necessarily mean you are in better shape and that you can still get a highly effective workout using the lower step, if the moves are intensive enough. Judging by my heart rate, breathing, and how 'soaked in sweat' I am, I think I'm getting an excellent workout using the lower step and higher intensity - I guess it all depends how 'right' it feels
Susan

 

[Marcia]

I say it depends on how you want your workout to be. I personally like a lower step and be able to jump a little higher and really be able to use full range of motion. But if you want to have a higher step and modify, why not?


Marcia, freezing in northern Sweden

 

[Bobbi]

How cold is it, Marcia? I'll bet it's beautiful!

Bobbi http://www.plauder-smilies.de/chicken.gif Chicks Rule!

 

[Marcia]

Hi Bobbi!

Well, actually since we are getting towards the late winter (there is no spring here, direct from winter to summer), it isn't as cold as normal. Today the sun is shining and it is about 10 F. In the deepest winter cold, it gets down to -20 F but 3 years ago it got as cold as -45 F. That was %!#?! cold! Yes, it is quite beautiful but we have A LOT of snow and I'm looking foward to its disapperance in May!



Marcia, freezing in northern Sweden

 

[LaurenH]

Hi! I remember reading somewhere (Maybe here on Cathe.com) that you gain more results from adding power moves to your workout than step height. There was a percentage given to show the difference in intensity, but I can't remeber what it was. I do remember that it made me stop feeling bad because I couldn't go past 6 inches. So now I just focus on doing the power moves when I can. I hope that is helpful!