Step Up Your Fitness Challenge
There's no denying that walking or running on a treadmill is a great cardio workout, but did you know that working out using a step actually burns more calories in less time. That's because your body is working against gravity with your body weight as resistance to complete the climbing motion.
As a result, exercising on a step will work wonders for your quads, glutes, calves and hamstrings and give your cardio fitness and endurance a boost. Don't just take our word for it though, take the Step Up Your Fitness Challenge and find out for yourself!
Simply complete the following circuit using the Reebok steps available in the functional area of our gyms:
1) Burpee on step
Stand feet shoulder-width apart in front of the step. Squat down slightly then jump with both feet onto, then off the step. Drop down to the floor, place both hands on the step, and adopt a plank position. Perform a press-up then spring back up to the start position.
This is a great full-body exercise.
2) Straight arm plank up
Get into a press-up plank position with arms straight and both hands on the step. Keeping your back flat and arms straight, step your hands down to the floor and then return them to the step.
Your legs, arms, shoulders, back and abs will get a great workout.
3) Mountain climbers
Get into a press-up plank position with arms straight and both hands on the step. Pull your left knee in towards your chest then return to start position, and repeat with your right knee.
This routine targets your abs and lower body.
4) Body weight step up
Start with your right foot on the step and left foot on the floor. Bring your hands in front of you for balance as you slowly bring your left foot up onto the step. Leave your left foot on the step and slowly lower your right foot to the floor.
This exercise will work wonders for your legs and bum.
5) Crossover push up
Start in a press-up position with your right hand on the floor, your left hand on the step. Lower your body towards the floor and as you press upwards put your right hand on to the step. Then, put your left hand on the floor and repeat the routine.
This exercise will target your arms, chest and back.
If you're a beginner:
- Perform each exercise for 30 seconds followed by 30 seconds rest
- Complete the circuit three times
If you're intermediate level:
- Perform each exercise for 30 seconds followed by 15 seconds rest
- Complete the circuit three to five times
If you're advanced level:
- Perform each exercise for 30 seconds with no rest in between.
- Complete the circuit five times
Step up and inspire others
Don't forget to let us know how you get on. Take a step selfie and share it with us using the hashtag #BringingIt
Looking for more workout ideas to help you get fitter and more toned? Check out our free workouts section.
