Hi pace1987,
I understand your predicament but in the opposite way. I started recently with step tapes and absolutely fell in love with them. At first I was thinking, "gosh, this would be A LOT easier if the video instructor had their back to me so I could see exactly what I had to do". But after a few viewings I got very used to it and find it very easy to mirror them. (Just like someone mentioned it's like looking in a mirror). But...I just joined a gym recently and took a step class and my brain didn't know what to do!! It was so odd to see the instructor's back. And I got turned around several times and found myself on the wrong foot several times especially when we were turned to the side and had to see the instructor in the mirror! :+ That's when I thought, gee, it's easier to workout with a tape! :7
So really, it's all what you're used to doing. But stick with it. Even with the tapes there are times when first doing it that I pushed the rewind button to figure out a move. And when she starts moving in front of the board, watch it a few times first while just stepping up and down on the board and join in when you're ready. (Being a perfectionist, I have to remind myself that it's ok that I don't get it the first time (or the second), this isn't a competition, you're supposed to be having fun and getting in shape so who cares) This "pep talk" has let me relax and just enjoy the workout.
So have fun with it and take your time. Don't let yourself get too frustrated. Think of it as a challenge that actually helps keep it all interesting. (Along with the feeling of accomplishment when you finally do "get it".)
Just my 0.02,
Sarah