Step height question..

[JustMe]

I have been doing Cathes tapes for well over a year now. On some tapes I can do them at a 6 inch step height. I am 5'4", but have legs that are on the shorter side. Most tapes I have to lower to just 4 inches cause I just can't do all the jumping.
Am I being wimpy or does anyone else do her tapes at just 4-inch step height.............

 

[Beets]

Hi Justme

Don't call yourself a wimp for staying at a 4" inch step height for aerobics. I am 5'4 myself but most of my height is in my legs (I was "blessed" with a short torso ). I usually do step with an 8" step and very occasionally with a 10" step. If you are using the 4" and are getting a good workout than that is all that matters. If the 4" is no longer challenging, then try upping the step height and do as much as you can. The most important thing though is to listen to your body. If the increased step height compromises your form or causes any kind of pain in the knees or lower back, then the increased intensity is not worth it. Also, you never want to use a step height that would make your knees/hips bend at less than a 90 degree angle since this could cause an injury. Keep on stepping! :-jumpy

 

[gvaughn]

I'm 5'9" and I pretty much always have to use my step at 4" with Cathe. I usually go up to 6" for Reebok type vids, and 8" for the FIRM. But with all that turning and jumping, 4" works just fine!

http://www.plauder-smilies.de/pyth.gif Gretchen

 

[donna]

Hi..I'm 4'11 and for safety reasons, I pretty much stick with the 4 " step. I do use a 6" step for Gilad's Step Aerobic and Charlene's Get The Fat Off - those are my exceptions. With Cathe's step tapes, I get a very efficient sweat producing workout with the 4". You really have to stick with what is feels safe and comfortable for you.

 

[murph]

I'm 5'9". Mostly, I do 8"--but ALOT OF THE TIME--I do 6" and get a great workout with no knee stress. I'd say since you're so much "less tall" ;-): that 4" normally and 6" for an easier video would be great.

 

[ColleenM]

For me it varies depending on how I feel and how my knee in particular feels. I'm 5'6" with long legs and usually do either a 4" or 6" step for Cathe.

I used to do an 8" step but found it was way too hard on my knee.

Colleen

 

[JustMe]

Thanks, everyone....I don't feel so wimpy. I did manage to do Imax today with a 6-inch step...but the step portions in it are not as intense. Wish I could say the same about the Interval portions.....(I am pooped)...........Jodi