Step aerobics music
Step is built in 32-count blocks. Phrased music changes when the block does, at a tempo your steppers' feet can keep.
Step runs in 32-count blocks
A basic step takes four counts: up, up, down, down. Two basics fill an eight-count, and eight fill a 32-count block. Combinations are built and taught a block at a time.
Fitness Radio's phrased tracks start on the first downbeat and end on a 32, so every block starts at the top of a phrase.
The tempo for each level
Higher steps and newer steppers need more time per step. Each tempo below comes with how long one 32-count block takes, so you can time a routine.
| Level | Step height, at most | Music, in BPM |
|---|---|---|
| NoviceBack to exercise after a break | 4 in | 118–12215.7 to 16.3 s a block |
| BeginnerExercises regularly, new to step | 6 in | 12415.5 s a block |
| IntermediateSteps regularly | 8 in | 12615.2 s a block |
| AdvancedSteps regularly and skillfully | 10 in | 12815.0 s a block |
ACE doesn't recommend step music above 128 BPM. That includes 136, the default most Fitness Radio users set for other classes, so set your step playlist lower.
Levels, heights and tempos: American Council on Exercise, Step Training Guidelines.
Any song, at your step tempo
The song your class loves is rarely at 124 BPM. Set it there with BPM control, and you can choose music for the mood while keeping the speed safe for the step.
BPM control in Premium Pulse and Studio Suite
32-count phrased tracks
Each phrased song starts on its first downbeat and ends on a 32, so the music turns over when your block does.
Any BPM from 60 to 200
Set one track or lock the whole playlist to 124, 126 or 128 for your level.
Gapless playback
No silence between tracks, so the count carries straight through a track change mid-routine.
32-count downbeat detection
Find the 32-count downbeats in the tracks in your own playlists.
Step aerobics music questions
What BPM is best for step aerobics?
The American Council on Exercise suggests 118 to 122 BPM for novices on a 4-inch step, 124 for beginners, 126 for intermediate steppers and 128 for advanced steppers, and no step music above 128 BPM. Faster music compromises technique and safety.
What is 32-count music for step?
Music arranged in 32-count phrases, so every phrase starts on a strong downbeat. A basic step is four counts, so one phrase holds eight basics. Step combinations are built in 32-count blocks, and phrased music changes when the block does.
Can I slow down a song for my step class?
Yes, in Premium Pulse and Studio Suite. Tap the BPM under Tempo in the player and set the exact BPM for one track or lock it for the whole playlist. Tracks are time-stretched to the tempo you choose, so a song recorded at 132 BPM can play at 124.
How high should the step platform be?
ACE suggests 4 inches for novices and up to 10 inches for skilled, experienced steppers; 8 inches is the most common height. Whatever the level, the knee should not bend past 90 degrees when all your weight is on the stepping leg.
More answers on the FAQ page.
Keep every block on the count.
Full music library included in the trial.