Can I continue to do step aerobics?

[Vicky G.]

Dear Cathe,
I've been in love with step aerobics for about a year now. Thanks to your wonderful videos, I've lost 30 pounds, toned up and am having a wonderful time doing it!However, recently I had arthroscopic surgery on my left knee due to a tear in the meniscus. I'm not exactly sure how I tore it but I suspect I was being too exhuberant in my stepping but who knows. I'm fine now and have started back doing my 4 times a week step routines. I've recently heard from a person who used to teach step at a local Y said that stepping is VERY bad for the knees but one should never do it on a board over 6 inches. Needless to say, I'm very distraught in hearing this because I love step so much. I would very much like to hear your opinion about this statement since you are a professional and do a lot of step. I am almost 44 years old and haven't been in this good of shape for a long time. I feel healthier and leaner. I feel like I've finally found something I enjoy and will benefit from. Is stepping safe as long as I don't over do it? Should I cut down on how often I'm doing it and supplement my workouts with another kind of aerobic activity? I would appreciate your input.

Sincerely,
Vicky Gaumer

 

[Joanna]

I've had that operation too...

...and found that doing the exercises prescribed by my doctor were critical in the first few weeks of recovery. He told me I could return to exercising as I felt stronger. Apart from telling my to keep up with my anti-inflammatory medicines, I can't recall any restrictions. But, hey, I am not an expert. I do, however, live with an orthopaedic surgeon

. He tells me that everyone recovers differently and moderation is the key, especially at first.

Since my operation, I have not had any more problems, plus I have found that doing strength workouts (esp ones that build the quads) has helped me avoid further injury. From time to time if my knees hurt, I drop down to a lower step. But like you, I love it too much to quit.

Hope this helps...

Joanna