L&G and step height

[lisaLD]

Cathe (or anyone!), in Legs & Glutes there are several exercises that you do with a 10 inch step. I don't have the High Step, so my choices are 8 inches or 14 inches. Is there a better choice between the two? I've only previewed the workout, but 8 inches seems just seems like it would be too low. Would 14, however, be dangerously high for those exercises? I appreciate anyones input on this.

By the way, in addition to L&G, I've previewed Super Sets and Push Pull. I can't wait to get started! Thank you, thank you, thank you, for all of your hard work. They look great!

 

[RhiannonW]

My thoughts are(and if I'm wrong correct me, please) as long as your knee does not bend past the 90 degree angle, your safe with the height in question. Also, the step height should be determined by how tall you are(again, the 90 degree rule).

 

[kathryn]

Not having seen the workout yet (still waiting on my DVD's), I'd rather you err on the side of caution and try it with 8"(only 2"of difference) rather than 14" (4 inches of difference). Depending on what exercises you are refering to (I'm assuming step up variations?), you can put more intensity into them by squating (or dipping) down a bit at the bottom of the move, to a point where your legs are at no tighter than a 90-degree angle.

 

[Stargazer]

Hi Lisa,
I have done legs & glutes a few times and based on that I'd have to ask you how tall you are and is your height in your legs or body. I'm about 5'6" which is about as tall as Cathe's Rhonda and with the same leg to body proportion -length in my legs (I know she isn't in this one) I have my step set at 12" when Cathe and crew are at 10" IMHO another factor is the height you use for step ups. (I use 16") If you use 14" for step ups, it seems like you should use the 8" for the jeannies and outer thigh leg presses. If on the other hand you use 17" for presses and are 5'7" or more, then the 14" might be okay.

Now for my real opinion - looks to me like you need to get yourself a present and order a high step! :7

-joy

 

[lisaLD]

I answered my own question!

Joy,

First, I agree with you. I definitely need a high step! I'm going to ask for that to be my present from my kids!

I'm 5'4", and I use a 14" step for step ups. Given that and what you suggested, I would use the 8" step. Well, I went on and did Legs&Glutes. By the time I got to the drop squats, the first exercise they do at 10", I felt no need to try it at 14"! Eight was plenty high enough. I did try a couple of the "jeannies" at 14, and didn't feel comfortable there, like I couldn't get balanced properly. Anyway, a high step would be great, but until I get it, I think 8" is better for me.

I thought that was a tough workout by the way. What did you think? It really hits just about every possible muscle, except maybe shins. My quads are really beat (two hours after finishing it). I've never had a Cathe leg workout wipe out my quads like that. I guess I'll feel the rest tomorrow!

Thanks!

 

[Stargazer]

RE: I answered my own question!

Oh I was laughing when I read about your drop squat experience...You certainly did the right thing sticking with the 8". By the time I was finished with L&G I was already feeling it, which usually doesn't happen...and those 'jennies'.. my 12" was the perfect height for me and I was crying (more like whimpering) "no more" when we got to the last few reps.

I have to confess, the first time I tried I went light and thought it was tough. The second time I gave it my all and OH MY!! But it is interesting because it is so different.
-joy

 

[lisaLD]

RE: I answered my own question!

Joy,

There were several times I asked, "there's more?" and not in an oh joy kind of way. It was a great workout, though. What weight did you use? I used what Cathe did. It's amazing how using 15 pounds for squats could seem so tough, but it did!}(

 

[Mckmain]

RE: I answered my own question!

I'm 5'4 too, and use a step for Legs and Glutes that my husband made me some time ago when I first started doing step. It just happens to be 14 by 10. Which is perfect for this workout. I don't think I'd try the drop squats or any of the other ones they do on a 10 for a 14. Might not be good for the knees. Your decision of sticking with the 8 is a good one!.

Yes this one is very tough and probably my favorite of the lower body tapes of Cathe's. I normally feel it in my hamstrings and glutes. I have done it about 6 times and slowly increased my weight. I did it yesterday and have increased the 12 to 15 and the 15 to 18!..YEOW!!!! I got some adjustable ankle weights and use 2lb so far.... Carole