Step Height Question

[yysgirl]

Cathe, you often mention raising or lowering step height make a work-out more intense or easier. However, is there a point where the added intensity CONSIDERABLY increases the possibility of injury? (especially to the knees?) There are several threads on step height. Some point out that raising the step height does not burn too many more calories, but it does up the cardio involved, making the heart work more. Many cathletes complain of increased pain in the knees. In one of your vidos, I think it might have been Low Max, you mention upping your step height to 8 inches, but not going higher. Now, I know some videos have step heights greater than 8 inches, but they are generally slower, weighted work-outs, as compared to cardio work-outs like Low Max. I'm guessing these types of variables also come into play when considering what step height to use?

I appreciate any thoughts and reflections you might have on this topic.

Thanks!
Mary

 

[nsaeolian]

me too

I'd be interested in this too. I have wee short legs and if I go higher than the 6" for cardio, I trip over the step or worse, ha ha. I also find 8" to be plenty for leg press and similar exercises. I've tried 14" for weight work and my knees quickly protest.

 

[Kathy36]

Good question...I was wondering this too. I tend to get aches in my knees if I do too many step workouts on the 8" box. But, I love the added cardio intensity it gives me.