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Exercise handout — move better, feel better.
Step-Aerobics Thunder and Lightning
Aim: to raise your heart rate and build leg endurance. Good for: Home cardio without equipment; Short interval burst; Leg endurance work.
When to use
This is for fit exercisers who want a short, hard cardio burst. Use it in the main part of a session after a warm-up. The goal is to raise your heart rate and build leg endurance.
Stop if
Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness or joint pain that does not ease.
- Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
- Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.
Equipment needed
- Works at home
- Works at the gym
none
Home Options
- bodyweight
Dosage
4
Sets
20 sec
Reps / Time
90 sec
Rest
controlled
Tempo
Step-by-Step Guide
Set up
- Stand tall with the feet together and the arms at the sides.
- Prepare for the small controlled hop.

Step 1 of 5
Stand tall with your feet close together. Rest your arms at your sides.

Step 2 of 5
Hop your feet apart into a wide squat. Bring your hands down in front of your lower torso.

Step 3 of 5
Hold the wide squat with your chest lifted. Keep your knees in line with your toes.

Step 4 of 5
Return to a narrow stance. Reach both arms overhead in a V.

Step 5 of 5
Stand tall again with your feet together and your arms at your sides.
Form Cues
- Land softly with bent knees
- Keep your chest lifted
- Point knees the same way as toes
- Keep your shoulders relaxed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Landing with stiff knees
- Letting the knees fall inward
- Leaning far forward in the squat
- Rushing and landing off balance
Safety Information
This move has impact on the knees and ankles. Use a non-slip floor. For lower impact, step your feet out and in instead of hopping.
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Printed from clapmove.com. ClapMove is not a replacement for professional medical advice — always consult a healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.