Why is it that people who come to step class for the first time think that they should know everything? Is it just me or does anyone else find it weird that people who attend the group exercise classes think that they should know everything right away? Do you know how to swim the first time you get into a pool? Do you know how to ride a bike the first time you get on one? If you are wondering, the answer is NO!!! Hence, it would make sense that the first time you take a group exercise class (step, kickboxing, boxing, etc.), you probably are going to SUCK big time.

Hey, not a big deal. None of the regulars or the instructor expects you to do well. We would be extremely happy if you just kept on the beat of the music and once in a while attempted an advanced move. Otherwise, stick with one thing and try not to hurt yourself or anyone else. So, for those of you who plan on attending a new group exercise class, here are some tips:

Approach the instructor and tell them you are new. If the instructor is good, he/she should give you some tips as a beginner and advise you on the proper equipment to use OR, in some cases, not use. For example, if you are new to step class, don't put any of the risers on that increase the height of the bench. It's like swimming in the deep end of a pool when you don't know how to even swim. And for god's sake, listen to what the instructor tells you to do.

Stay toward the back of the room!!!!! Getting closer to the instructor does not mean you will learn all the moves faster. You kinda have to come back again and again to get all the moves. Being in the back also means that you are not blocking someone else's view or throwing them off rhythm because you cannot stay on the beat of the music. Nothing pisses off people more than someone who cannot stay on the beat; it throws off the rhythm of the class - especially the instructor's. Mind you, some of the people who have been coming for years could not get a beat with a stick.

Stay for the entire class. Even if you are not getting 99% of the moves, who cares! It's only a class, not a contest. Hey, point is, keep moving within your own alotted space and try to get some exercise in. If you followed the previous tip, you should really be inconspicuous even if you are just dancing to the music. Plus, practice really does make perfect in this case. My only request is that you don't become a nuisance or hazard to your classmates.

Finally, no matter how in shape you think you are, NEVER EVER try to do the advanced moves. Most instructors will indicate which moves are the basic ones and which are advanced or optional. Stick with the basic simple ones for the first few classes. If you think you look dumb doing only the simple basic version of any move, you look like an ass while you mess up the advanced version. But hey, if you really like being talked about by other people and being pointed at and laughed at, then go for the most difficult advanced version.

You are now ready to go to your first group exercise class. Have fun, don't stress, and, most of all, give yourself a chance to get used to it. It's not inherent, you must learn it. Later.  ¶ 10:34 PM