Do I HAVE to vary cardio??

missyb70

Cathlete
I know that you always recommend doing a variety of different cardio workouts in your rotations, etc. I'm wondering if it is necessary though? For example, I just started doing Rhythmic Step and I love it, I did it 6 days in a row and finally got all the steps down (yeah, I'm a tad bit uncoordinated!!) and I'd like to keep doing it this week since it's so much fun. Is there any harm in doing the same cardio workouts day after day??
 
IMO, you are risking overuse injuries by doing not only the exact same TYPE of workout (step) but the exact same workout. I'd but a day between each workout. Also, vary the type of workout you do to work the muscles differently.
 
In addition to the potential for overuse injuries, your body becomes more efficient when it does the same workout, or as Kathryn noted the same MODE of workout, day after day; thus you lose part of the keenest edge of the challenge. I agree with Kathryn's suggestions.

A-Jock
 
If you do nothing but step aerobics, you also run the risk of overdeveloped quads. As previous posters stated, it's best to mix it up.
 
My new plan is to do step twice a week -- it's my favorite and kickboxing and running two times a week. I would like to inlude some intervals -- the imaxes -- and some circuit training. (Along with my other strength training.) Would this be too much step? The idea of overdeveloped quads scares me. :eek:
 
Hi Everyone!

I am a step instructor, and I teach 3 step classes a week in addition to doing Cathe's videos. I must agree with the previous poster who stated that you risk overdeveloped quads with too much step. I have recently gone back to serious weight training (I teach 2 body sculpting classes, but it wasn't enough), so I have added Power Hour and Muscle Endurance to my video collection and try to do them on alternating days when my schedule allows. I have noticed that my hamstrings, hip and glute areas are much more in line muscularly with my quadriceps now.

I love step just as much as you do- I would do it every day if I could. I absolutely adore IMAX 2 because it gives me the step portion, plus the cardio blasts, which is an ideal combination! Just a suggestion!
 

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