Question for Cathe :)

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Hello Everyone!

I am fairly new to Step Aerobics and I love it. I have been doing Step Aerobics 6 days a week. Well today I noticed that my knees are starting to crackle when I bend down or get out of my seat. I am addicted to Step, but at the same time, I do not want to "over-do" it and hurt myself. I have no pain now, but am afraid it could come if I ignore this "sound".

Cathe, how often to you suggest I do Step each week? Do you suggest 3-4 times, instead of 6?

Should I worry about crackling knees without pain, or just leave it alone and ignore the sounds? I will also try lowering my step. I am going to be especially careful of my "workout posture" too.

Thank you very much for any feedback on this matter. I appreciate it!

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Amydaisy! I think 6 days of the same exact cardio activity, regardless of step, running, biking, etc., is not good for the joints, tendons, muscles, etc. It is a better idea, if possible, to expose the body to various stresses in order to share the load so that not one exact area on the body gets too overloaded (and possibly get injured). Of course those in training for triathlons, marathons and other hi-rep activities have undergone a regimented program which generally factors in rest and recovery to protect them as best as possible for the overuse risk. But in the case of general fitness training, I would say you are better off varying your activities, putting in at least a day of rest, and having two to three high intensity days mixed with two to three moderate intensity days. This will not only help offset injury, but also help offset mental burnout.

Hope this helps!

 

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Thank you very much Cathe for your response!!!!!

I appreciate it.

I have decided to do Step 3-4 times a week, instead of 6.

I will do weights for my arms, do abs, and stretch on the other days.

I will also take 2 days off to rest and relax!

THANK YOU AGAIN!