lower step

[Mar]

Hi Cathe - I recently lowered my step to 6 inches. It has made a big difference in my ability to master choreography. I'm a klutz at step, but a great dancer (go figure!). Anyway, I've been adding additional propulsion moves and arm movements to make the workout more intense. However, I've noticed that I'm not wiped out like I was before, I still sweat as much, but I feel more energized as opposed to worn out at 8 inches. My question is do you think I'm getting enough of a workout at 6 inches?

Thanks

Mar

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Mar! If you are in your training zone when you work out, you are getting enough of a workout. What you need to define is what YOU are looking for in a workout. Based on what you wrote, being energized and light on your feet sounds much better to me than "worn out". However, if your definition of "worn out" simply means that you gave everything your all and could probably not have pushed any harder (as opposed to "worn out" meaning borderline welcoming an injury) than thats fine too.

Perhaps somedays you would prefer to be light on your feet and more dancer-like, while other days you want to be more focused and sure-footed at higher heights. A combination of both is another option for you. The only time I advise a specific height is if you are not in your training zone. And the only time I definitely advise lowering your step height is if you are feeling discomfort, especially in your knees, hips, or ankles.

Hope that helps