Why is it introduced into preschool institutions as part of physical education classes?
Children’s step aerobics is a simple and effective workout for preschool children. The main exercises are designed for children 6-8 years old, at this age they can already clearly follow the coach’s commands. Classes are held on a special step platform, the height of which can be changed if necessary.
As a rule, they train in the gym, and in some regions with a warm climate, classes are transferred outside.
The main difference between children’s step aerobics and adult aerobics is the game form. Exercises are carried out to cheerful music, game rhythmics are added, poetic forms are used. To achieve a positive effect, the duration of the session should be at least 20-30 minutes.
Step aerobics is introduced into preschool institutions as part of physical education. Many fitness centers also offer such programs.
Why is it needed?
There are enough advantages of children’s step aerobics.
Here are the main ones.
- General health-improving effect: nervous, respiratory and cardiovascular systems are strengthened.
- Posture improves, a muscle corset is formed.
- It contributes to the development of dexterity, flexibility and speed of reaction.
- Children learn to train balance, since they practice on a small area of the platform.
- Step aerobics is the prevention of flat feet in children.
- Classes are easy and fun, and children enjoy attending them.
Course of classes
Steps are placed in the gym on the floor in a checkerboard pattern. Children stand behind the steps and perform movements to rhythmic music. Musical accompaniment is mandatory here, it creates the right pace and changes with the intensity of the lessons.
The main elements of step aerobics are cyclical, they can be performed in several sets.
Among them:
- ascents and descents from the step;
- steps (walking) on the step;
- steps and leg swings;
- steps using a step platform, complemented by hand movements;
- steps, in combination with bending and turning the body;
- step step with a half-squat;
- Stretching exercises using a step platform.
All elements of step aerobics are performed with a small amplitude. It is important to dose physical activity, control the heart rate (no more than 150-160 beats per minute).
The complex ends with exercises to restore breathing and relax.
Step aerobics clothing
A child needs good sneakers with a bendable and shock-absorbing sole. You need to choose strictly according to size (without any “for growth”) – shoes should be securely fixed on the foot to avoid dislocations and other injuries. It is not recommended to practice barefoot and in Czechs on a step platform.
From clothing, a T-shirt and shorts or an elastic tracksuit will come in handy. Do not buy too wide trousers so that the child does not get tangled in the pant legs with an active step.
Are there any contraindications?
Step aerobics is a gentle physical activity. Children with almost all health groups are allowed to attend classes. If necessary, you need to choose a slower pace of exercises.
If the child has diseases of the musculoskeletal system, and in particular of the knee joints, step aerobics classes must be agreed with a doctor.
In general, step aerobics for children is a good “start” for more serious sports loads. It trains volitional qualities, strength, confidence and maintains interest in physical exercises.
