Turnstep


  • Start Position:
    • Stand on the floor near the right end of a horizontally positioned step platform, facing toward its left end.
    • Position yourself so that you can step onto the platform and turn toward the opposite side.
    • Keep the feet approximately hip-width apart and maintain an upright posture.
    • Allow sufficient clear floor space on both sides of the platform for stepping down and reversing direction.
  • Description:
    • The Turnstep is an eight-movement step aerobics combination that uses a modified basic step with alternating changes in direction.
    • The participant steps onto the platform with the right foot, turns toward the right while bringing the left foot onto the platform, and steps down on the opposite side.
    • The movement is then reversed, beginning with the left foot and turning toward the left to return to the starting side.
    • The combination develops coordination and introduces directional changes that can be incorporated into more advanced step aerobics routines.
  • Sequence:
    1. Step 1: From the right end of the platform, step onto its right side with the right foot.
    2. Step 2: Bring the left foot onto the left side of the platform while turning the body toward the right. Allow the feet to reposition naturally as the direction changes.
    3. Step 3: Step down onto the floor on the opposite side of the platform with the right foot.
    4. Step 4: Bring the left foot down onto the floor beside the right foot, completing the first turn.
    5. Step 5: Step back onto the platform with the left foot.
    6. Step 6: Bring the right foot onto the platform while turning the body toward the left, reversing the previous movement.
    7. Step 7: Step down onto the floor with the left foot, returning toward the original side of the platform.
    8. Step 8: Bring the right foot down onto the floor beside the left foot, completing the return turn.
    9. Repeat the combination at a comfortable pace, maintaining controlled foot placement throughout each turn.
  • Notes:
    • The Turnstep combines a modified basic step with alternating right and left turns.
    • The first half of the sequence begins with the right foot and turns toward the right. The second half begins with the left foot and reverses the direction.
    • Practice the footwork slowly before adding faster directional changes or additional movements.
    • Turn by repositioning the feet as you step. Avoid twisting the knees or rotating the body while the feet remain firmly planted.
    • Keep the entire supporting foot securely positioned on the platform and avoid stepping too close to its edges.
    • Maintain an upright posture and use controlled movements when stepping down to either side.
    • Variation: Perform the turning movement with a slightly lowered squat position, bending the hips and knees comfortably while maintaining balance.
    • Variation: Add a controlled knee lift on each side of the combination, adjusting the footwork and timing as necessary.
    • For a lower-intensity variation, use a lower platform, reduce the amount of turning or practice the directional changes on the floor before using the platform.
    • Precaution: Ensure sufficient space around the platform. Avoid rapid turns that cause the feet to lose secure contact with the stepping surface.
    • For related movements, see the Basic Step and Reverse V-Step Lunge exercises in the IFA Aerobics Library.