Need guidence for aerobic classes

I just began a step aerobics class. Can you provide some basic guidelines to follow so that I don't hurt myself?

Originally posted by angelika
I just began a step aerobics class.

I don't mean to be a de-railer here, but isn't there an instructor in your class?

My only advice is to stretch well before AND after any exercises. That has always helped me avoid a lot of painful cramping. (Staying well hydrated helps as well..electrolytes, you know.) Either way, hope somebody more knowledgeable can help you.

Stretching is good, make sure you do a warm up, too, where you start off slowly. Hydrate, drink lots of water. Work up to doing it for longer periods of time if that's what you want to do, don't over do it all at once. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or light-headed, stop. Make sure you have good shoes, too, that fit well and support your feet.

Have fun and enjoy!