Pilates Fitness Friday: The Return of Classical STEP

Stepping into summer with classical STEP, bringing rhythm and energy back to your training.

This Fitness Friday, I’m thrilled to announce something a little different yet close to my heart, the return of classical STEP, this time online and accessible to everyone, wherever you are. I’m going back to my roots. Back to when STEP first came on the scene. Living in Los Angeles at the time, I was one of the first teachers of STEP at the Voight Fitness Studios – and I still remember the excitement and energy that STEP brought to the fitness world. I was also there at the pivotal workshop in Dallas with Dr Kenneth Cooper, when he shared his research into the cardiovascular benefits of STEP and the ideal speed of the music. It was groundbreaking then, and I believe it still holds value now.

STEP has evolved so much since those early days. Originally, we were using long wooden platforms – yes, one platform shared between three people – either 6 or 12 inches high (that’s roughly 15 or 30 centimetres). The choreography had to be strictly arms-forward, because if you extended sideways, you’d quite literally hit the person beside you. The energy was there, but the space definitely wasn’t.

Over the years, STEP became more complex, with high-intensity dance-inspired combinations and fast-moving routines. But what I’m bringing back is something more grounded – something I’m calling classical STEP. Much like classical Pilates, this approach honours the original format. It’s rhythmic, safe, effective, and most importantly, fun.

The structure of classical STEP is simple and smart – a steady beat per minute, supportive of joint alignment and cardiovascular endurance. And the benefits are plenty:

• Repeated stepping up and down challenges the heart and lungs, supporting aerobic conditioning.

• It builds strength and endurance in the legs, glutes, and core.

• It enhances balance, coordination, and mental focus through rhythmic movement.

• And it brings the community energy that we know and love from group classes – even when taught online.

For those who don’t know the origins of STEP, it actually began in Florida, with Gin Miller credited as the creator. Reebok STEP and The STEP Company quickly became household names in the fitness world, especially at conventions here in the UK. It was everywhere – fresh, dynamic, and with a beat that made you move.

So yes, it’s a full circle moment for me. From those early platforms in LA to today’s online studios, STEP is once again finding its place. And I’m excited to be offering online classical STEP classes starting soon. It’s the perfect time to reintroduce this tried and tested format, just as summer arrives and we all feel that seasonal shift in energy and motivation.

If you’d like to join me, keep an eye on www.myacademy.pro for class announcements. Or message me directly and I’ll make sure you’re the first to know when they launch.

Let’s step into summer together.