You have been doing step aerobics since they came out with it as an exercise form in the 1980's. You consider yourself to be an advanced stepper, and you have taken plenty of different classes. You think you probably know just about all there is to know about step aerobics. You may even be getting a bit bored with your current class. But there are a few things that even intermediate to advanced steppers should keep in mind when they are looking to increase the intensity of their workout.

You know that adding more levels to your step is a great way to increase your workout. Adding more than one step and using them both is also a good way to step up your cardiovascular fitness level. However, keep in mind that you should not have a step higher than 12 inches. Using steps of different levels can really keep you paying attention! Many advanced step aerobic classes are incorporating other exercise equipment into the routine to increase the intensity and get your muscles to respond in new and different ways. The use of stability balls, hand and ankle weights, resistance bands, barbells, etc. If your current class is not up to your expectations, look around. Even in small cities, there are usually a wide variety of aerobics classes offered. You can also look for an advanced step class that adds other moves such as kickboxing segments, intervals, etc. to kick up the workout another notch. You might find that along with a better workout, you are learning some really kick-butt kickboxing moves! Another way to step up your step aerobics routine is to talk with your instructor to increase the tempo of the music. If this is not possible, ask your instructor to change the type of music that he or she uses. Adding fast and funky Christmas music is a good way to keep up your motivation during the holidays. Trying some big band music or some other type of music that is completely different from what you normally step to changes your workout routine and challenges your mind and body. Keep in mind that you should never exceed 122 cadences per minute, however. Any more than that and you risk injury. If you are really interested in maxing out your workout, consider a boot camp/step aerobics class. These are designed to challenge you to the max. These classes will have you pushing your body to the limit, but boy, do you feel good after you finish! Remember your posture! Good posture is essential to step aerobics. Sometimes, we do step aerobics so often, we get a bit lazy with our posture. Don't let yourself slump even the slightest bit. We all tend to get lazy when we are tired, so if you are pumping up your step aerobics class by doing something new, pay some extra attention to your spine to make sure it is straight while exercising. Chances are you can add a new dimension to your step aerobics routine by taking a different class that offers something more than just step aerobics. Along with step aerobics there are tons of other aerobics options to choose from. Try one of these outdoor aerobics activities, such as hiking or cycling or why not give dance aerobics a try. Whatever you choose you will feel and look great!