MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Kaneohe Bay -- Fitness aerobics has become a popular exercise concept behind the efforts of high profile fitness celebrities such as Richard Simmons and Suzanne Somers. However, military members have always led the pack when it comes to fitness, in every clime and place.
Marine Corps Base Hawaii takes fitness to the next level by stepping it up a bit at the Semper Fit Center at Kaneohe Bay. Step aerobics, the high-calorie-burning, cardiovascular workout, incorporates music into the workout routine.
Step aerobics is a toning exercise that involves coordination and stamina, explained Laura Byrne, fitness instructor at the Semper Fit Center. An hour-long session can burn between 250-400 calories, depending on the person's level of exertion.
"Step aerobics is a good way to burn calories while keeping in step with music," said Byrne. "Step class teaches coordination while also toning the body's muscles."
The actual "step" used during the routine is a raised platform that can be adjusted depending on the user's desired level of challenge. The higher the platform, the more difficult the workout becomes, giving the person exercising the opportunity to choose his own level of difficulty.
According to Byrne, her class teaches at the basic level: introduction to step; however, anyone ranging from beginner to advanced can join a class and take advantage of the workouts.
"Fitness aerobics has many benefits," Byrne said. "It is an exercise that depends on the person. You get out of it what you put in."
K-Bay classes run for one hour each on Tuesday and Thursday, and individual tickets cost $2, or $10 for a book of 15.
The Semper Fit Center hosts several fitness classes, including step aerobics. For more details, call Semper Fit at (808) 254-7597.