Steve Boedt and Fabian Kühn: Two of the Industriy's Best Freestyle Step Instructors

Steve Boedt and Fabian Kühn: Two of the Industry's Best Freestyle Step Instructors

Every Freestyle Step Aerobics class is unique: the 'Freestyle' element does exactly what it says on the tin. The steps and moves aren't fixed, so the classes have a whole lot of personality. Each instructor puts their own individual free style on their routines.

Naturally, some instructors are going to have more imagination, more creativity, more energy than others. High five if you've managed to find one of those gems! Two of the best, biggest and most brilliant names within the Freestyle Step instruction world are Steve Boedt and Fabian Kühn. If you've already heard of them then you'll know how fabulous they are; if you haven't, then read on to find out what you're missing out on.

These men are both very different in terms of the styles of their classes. Each style has its upsides; each has its drawbacks. Now is your chance to decide once and for all which style - and which instructor - is best.

The next best thing to come out of Belgium after chocolates is Steve Boedt. He decided to become a Freestyle Step instructor 17 years ago, after being persuaded to become a member of a local class. He was hooked from the word 'go', and the rest - as they say - is history.

Since then, Steve Boedt has earned more fitness awards than you can shake your booty at. Over the years he has held the titles of 'Instructor of the Year', 'Rookie of the Year' and 'Presenter of the Year' to give you just a handful of examples. He has worked in numerous countries, appeared on several fitness workout DVDs, and even made countless television appearances on hit shows such as The Biggest Loser. This guy is an expert in every sense of the word.

Steve Boedt has come to our DownUnder land quite often, to events such as Filex, event by Australian Fitness Network. During one of his visits, he created this video sample, along two of our best instructors, Min Lomo, and Tim Garland.This video my be from 2011, but give us a "look in" into Steve's style, knowladge and professionalism.

 

When it comes to style, Steve Boedt is a real performer. He's an entertainer. He's a showman. He likes to get up on stage in front of a group of people and make sure that the whole room has a good time. He puts every bit of his personality into the choreography and classes which he devises. Of course there's a strenuous workout in there as well, but his classes are all about having fun. This next video, although not a Freestyle Step video, shows how his energy and enthusiasm brings in large amount of people to his classes.

It goes without saying that working out - especially Freestyle Step - should be enjoyable. However, turning it into too much of a knees-up runs the risk of losing focus on why you're actually there: to get fit.

One man who sits at another end of the scale is Brazilian instructor extraordinaire Fabian Kühn. His classes take the technical aspects of Freestyle Step very seriously. Fabian Kühn has had a love for fitness and Freestyle Step for pretty much his whole life, which definitely comes across in his classes.

Don't get me wrong - Fabian Kühn's classes are still packed full of lively steps and energetic moves. You can rely on him for a session of fun, enjoyment and passion, as he puts a lot of individuality into his choreography. After all, he didn't earn the nickname 'Mr Step' for nothing! However, his classes do put a lot more emphasis on the actual moves and the overall workout rather than concentrating in having a great time risking missing on a harder workout.

Essentially, Fabian Kühn's Fitness Step classes are very advanced, but his instruction style isn't over the top. It's a very classic style; you could say that he's more of a serious teacher than an entertainer.

In all honesty, this is the main difference between these two men. There's no doubting that they're both extremely talented, passionate men, they just lead their classes in very different ways. Which is better? I'm not sure that there's a single right answer to that.

If you have a great time doing something, then you're more likely to succeed at it. This applies to all areas of life, not just working out! That's probably much of the reason why Steve Boedt's classes have become so popular. All the members have a blast, so of course they're going to keep returning week after week. They'll go away and tell their friends, and in this way Steve Boedt rises to stardom. Add to this the fact that he's such an entertainer and it's even more clear why his classes are always full; a teacher who enjoys what they teach makes the whole class seem more fun.

In contrast, a fitness class will never be truly brilliant unless it has a broad range of funky moves which stretch and tone your entire body. Focusing on these elements is essential; that's exactly what Fabian Kühn does. His classes are advanced, so they're pretty taxing. However, nobody's saying that they're all work and no play - Fabian Kühn's classes must be enjoyable, otherwise he probably wouldn't have reached such high levels of popularity. However, his technique must stand for something - he has attained over a million views on YouTube to date. His classes are clearly staggeringly popular, so surely there has to be a huge amount of merit with planning a challenging class, without going over the top as Steve Boedt does. If this wasn't true, people wouldn't keep turning to him time and time again.

When comparing these two Freestyle Step instructors, it's clear to see that they are both very similar in terms of the successes that they have achieved, but their styles are poles apart. That's the beauty of Freestyle Step Aerobics: you can go to two different classes held by two different instructors and they will both feel completely different. However, each has its merits; each instructor will have a dedicated set of followers.

I can't help but feel like despite their immense popularity, neither Steve Boedt nor Fabian Kühn has the perfect recipe, ....close second though!. Call me old fashioned, but I would have thought that the ideal situation would be to strike an instructor as energetic, enigmatic, entertaining, knowledgeable, captivating who throws a damn challenging choreography, with respect to the levels present in their class. It would make my day if I could put both, Steve Boedt and Fabian Kühn, inside a bottle, then give it a good shake to enjoy the final product! Am I being unfair and asking for too much? Too much to ask to have a bit of both worlds? Can you ever really have it both ways? You decide...

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This is my last article for 2014. Next Month I want to start 2015 with options in Freestyle Step exercising when you may find it difficult to get to a gym, or the gym's near you do not offer this fantastic class, or if you have got the Freestyle Step bug so badly that you want to practise between classes. I'll explain how they can do certain elements of freestyle step within your own home.

Until the first week of 2015... I hope that "More" Freestyle Stepping makes it into your "New Years Resolution".

Bruno Jimenez
December 2014

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TWITTER - https://twitter.com/FreeStyleStep
FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/StepXTRVGNZ
YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVpN8YvJ_2er0rw8B3q-sbA
INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/freestylextrvgnz
# TAGS - #freestyle, #FreestyleStep, #step

Five Things You Need to Know About Freestyle Step Health

Freestyle Step is real fun. Of course, if you've tried it before then you'll know that already. On the other hand, if you're new to the wonderful world of Freestyle Step, then the very fact that you're finding out more suggests that you think it looks reasonable. Well, I can assure you that it's more than reasonable. There are countless reasons why Freestyle Step Aerobics is a top-notch way of keeping fit. However, every hero has its weakness. Freestyle Step might be fantastic, but it's not without its dangers! If you're not careful, you could find yourself running into a whole heap of trouble. Here's a quick run-down of the top five things you need to know about staying fit and healthy while you enjoy Freestyle Step.

1. Go cardio!
One of the biggest benefits of Freestyle Step is that it's a seriously powerful cardiac workout. It will get your heart racing and your chest pumping as you move on, over and around your step. Don't forget that your heart is a muscle too. Exercise it and it will build up strength and stamina just like any other. Many other types of exercise will get your heart race up - even some other types of aerobics are good for your heart. However, none are quite as effective as Freestyle Step.

2. Work your head to your toes
You'll be working every inch of your body during a Freestyle Step class. Quite literally everything from your head to your toes will be getting exercised! Skilled instructors might throw in a move that gets you twisting (working your abs), reaching (stretching those arms) or lunging (toning those thighs). You've probably heard your friends talk about 'leg day' at the gym, or the fact that they missed 'arm day'. Why go to all the hassle of dividing up your workout, when you can tone up everything at once?
You'll work out your whole body in the space of just a single evening.

'110107-F-2616H-003' by Kenny Holston

This really does include your head, as well. You might not think that exercise can help your grey matter, but you'd be wrong. Freestyle Step can be very intense physically, which needs a lot of mental concentration. If you want to keep up with the class and co-ordinate your feet to move in time with your arms, your cogs will have to turn pretty quickly. Don't be surprised if you underestimate the mental workout that you can get from Freestyle Step.

3. Piling on the pressure
Freestyle Step is a gruelling workout, but there are some risks involved. It's the same with every sport - how often do you see a member of your favourite sports team get side-lined due to injury? If it can happen to the professionals then it can happen to anyone. Such is the case with Freestyle Step, where one of the most common injuries is to do with the joints in the leg.

Full knee support with KT Tape' by Maria Ly, via Flickr

Think about it. Every time you step up, you're putting your whole weight onto just a couple of bended joints. Every time you step down or lunge you're doing the same. Your poor knees and ankles get pounded time after time after time! After time this can get a bit much for your joints to handle, especially when you take into account any twisting, flexing and stretching you do - and this is all on top of all the walking you do during everyday life.

There are several things you can do to prevent this. Start with the obvious, which is placing your feet a bit more gently than usual, rather than stomping around like you're trying to put your foot right through the floor. If your joints do start giving you grief, then call in support! There are numerous grips, supports, anti-inflammatories, lotions and potions which you can use to give you relief while the joint heals.

4. Don't go breaking your heart
We've already seen how Freestyle Step is such a good way to get your heart pounding and your lungs working. However, there does come a point when you can overdo it. If you already have a weak heart or an underlying condition (which you might not know about yet) then you're at much greater risk of facing complications).

If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition already, then speak to your specialist before joining any Freestyle Step class. The last thing anybody wants is to have you experiencing chest pain, a weakened heart - or something even worse - in the middle of a workout.

Know your body. That's the best advice that anybody can have when it comes to heart health, especially when you're keeping fit! Working out will raise your pulse, so make sure you know what feels normal for you and what doesn't. If anything at all doesn't feel right, it's ok to stop. It's OK to slow down a little. It's ok to skip out some of the moves. Keep your heart healthy for a healthier you.

5. Open up about your feelings
Ok, so you've reached the point where you've been working out, and now your body is really feeling it. What do you do?

If you're feeling good and your muscles feel well exercised, then warm down gently. Every Freestyle Step instructor should automatically incorporate this into their classes, so that you go home feeling comfortable. Continue with gentle exercise until your next class, which should be soon after. Don't leave too long a gap between classes or Freestyle Step won't be as effective. Lastly, don't forget to tell your instructor how champion it made you feel!

Conversely, if you feel like things aren't working for you at any point then you must let your Freestyle Step instructor know. Whether you're mid-way through a move and you feel an injury, or whether you only start to feel pain once you return home, your instructor will be able to help. They won't mind if you need or want to take it easy for a few weeks, as they want you to enjoy the class too! In fact, they'll probably be able to suggest some easier, less strenuous steps that can be tailored to suit you, so that you can still get involved but without pushing your body over the edge. That's the beauty of Freestyle Step. It's all about being an individual. Allow your instructor to fit the moves to you.

By now it's no secret that Freestyle Step is a pretty awesome option. It's a marvellous workout for your heart, your mind, your soul - in fact, pretty much everything about you! It'd be easier to list what parts of the body Freestyle Step isn't good for, but quite frankly that list doesn't exist.

However, you must still be aware that accidents can happen. If you push your body further and further, don't be surprised if something can't take it anymore. Injury and over-working yourself are very real problems within the Freestyle Step world, so you need to be careful. Take care of yourself so that these things are less likely to occur. Pretty much every negative impact on your health is preventable in one way or another, so arm yourself against injury. You've heard it before: prevention is better than cure!

Despite all this, it should be no reason to put you off Freestyle Step. These are risks that you face in everyday life anyway, so similar caution should be taken. If you're careful, then Freestyle Step is still one of the best ways of keeping fit that the world has ever seen!

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For the month of December I want to compare my two Freestyle Step idols, Steve and Fabian. “Steve Boedt and Fabian Kühn: Two of the Industry's Best Freestyle Step Instructors” This article's aim is to compare the styles of Steve Boedt and Fabian Kühn. Not only on how similar are they, but specially on their differences.

Until the first week of December... I hope that no matter what you do, from time to time you have fun while stepping around your step!

Bruno Jimenez
November 2014

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TWITTER - https://twitter.com/FreeStyleStep
FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/StepXTRVGNZ
YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVpN8YvJ_2er0rw8B3q-sbA
INSTAGRAM - http://instagram.com/freestylextrvgnz
# TAGS - #freestyle, #FreestyleStep, #step

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Why Freestyle Step Isn't As Outdated As You Might Think

I'd be surprised if you've never heard of Freestyle Step (unless you were born after the year 2000, in which case I'll forgive you!). Even if you never tried it out yourself, you'll remember the day when it took the fitness world by storm. With its energising combination of dance moves, the instructor's imagination, and not to mention the autonomous step, Freestyle Step was the freshest thing to hit gyms in decades.

Freestyle Step most definitely had its day, and no matter how much it hurts to some of us, we cannot deny it, the day it reached a stumbling block did arrive some way back. It went from being a class which every other person had joined (or so it seemed), to suddenly the participants dropping like flies. Many reasons are behind this; the Les Mills BodyStep programs didn't help matters. There has been much discussion around whether or not Freestyle Step is fizzling out altogether (which you can read about on our article from August, “Is Freestyle Step Dying?”), which is a tender subject for some.

'110107-F-2616H-001' by Kenny Holston

I am pleased to say that things haven't got that bad for Freestyle Step yet! It hasn't died out altogether, with classes being run all around the country (it may take a bit of work, but if you persist looking for them… you will find them). However, just because something takes a drop in popularity, doesn't mean it should be forgotten. Don't sweep it under the gym carpet; there's no reason why it can't see a revival, being just as popular as it ever was! Pop superstar Michael Jackson is the perfect example - he saw worldwide success, especially during the 1980s, but he set a whole host of records after his death, becoming one of the best selling artists of 2009. See? A second wind is more than just a possibility.

I can tell I have not yet sold this to you, you need more convincing. So, what is it that makes Freestyle Step current and relevant, instead of outdated?.

For starters, the 'freestyle' element of “Freestyle Step” keeps it up-to-date constantly. There is no set routine - it's entirely up to each individual instructor as to which moves to include, and how adventurous to be! As trends change, so do the instructors' styles. They are always bringing new ideas and moves to the routines, keeping it modern. Freestyle Step moves with the times. By its very definition, Freestyle Step can never go out of fashion. Freestyle Step will not become outdated!.

Throw into the mix some of the very good instructors that demonstrate their passion for the program and it's obvious that Freestyle Step is still a trend which is full of energy and vitality. While many people lost interest and cancelled their classes, the instructors have continued to work away steadily in the background. When you see the routines that they're coming up with nowadays, it's like a shock to the system. Take a look: you'll see that they're bringing seriously cool, vibrant, moves to their classes. You only have to see a few minutes of a class to realise how enjoyable they are!.

One of the best-known Freestyle Step instructors overseas is Lars Schuijling, who had an entire post dedicated to him back in June. Watch this space for other great instructors in the world of Freestyle Step, including Steve Boedt and Fabian Kühn and within our shores, Ryan Hogan, Nikki Crooks, Jorge Erazo Casanova, Alberto Torres Perez just to mention a few. Here we have just some examples of Freestyle Step instructors whose classes are upbeat, energetic, and overflowing with fun while each has their own little “quirk” in their instructing.  

Their classes bring a new flavour to age-old tradition, with something new and original for long-time Freestyle Step enthusiasts. On the flip side, their energy and passion is matched by the all-time freestyle step followers, however it may not be as appealing and attractive to younger generations. These cutting-edge instructors bring new blood into the Freestyle Step family, making a dynamic environment which is constantly evolving.

As if that wasn't reason enough for thinking of Freestyle Step as something contemporary, then surely the number of similar fitness techniques is proof. The fact that famous programs such as “Les Mills BodyStep” are so similar has already been touched upon; in reality, there are countless classes with subtle variations. If Freestyle Step was outdated, the entire Step Aerobics generation would be wiped out - which clearly hasn't happened.

Although not as obvious on our country, Freestyle Step Aerobics has become a staple in gyms around the world, and a constant in many people's fitness regimes. Considering that it's still such a big part of thousands of people's lives, there's no way that Freestyle Step can be considered outdated.

Are you one of those people who were a massive Freestyle Step fan back in the day, but left it by the wayside? Perhaps you never tried it the first time round. Either way, Freestyle Step is still an awesome way of keeping fit. Give it another chance!.

As you can see, this isn't a gym class which just focuses on the trends of yesteryear. It's modern, it's up-to-date, it keeps revamping with every instructor’s special techniques, and it has something for all generations. Whether you have tried it before or not, Freestyle Step is made up of everything that you'd expect from a great gym class in this day and age.

Chief Aircrew Survival Equipment man as Freestyle Step Fitness Instructor

Did you see the map I created with the week Freestyle Step classes for a Group of Gyms known as DiR? You can find the map here. This map, although just for Barcelona city, shows that If you look elsewhere around the world, Freestyle Step hasn't seen the same decline in popularity that it has here in Australia. Why? In a nutshell: Freestyle Step didn't see the same overnight success in other countries as it did here. Its popularity grew gradually and steadily; in turn, its success has been long-lasting. The point in all this is that if it is still seen as modern and trendy in other corners of the globe, then the same applies here!.

Hopefully by now you understand that the drop in popularity wasn't down to a fault of Freestyle Step itself. People didn't stop going to classes because it became boring, repetitive or mundane. People didn't stop going because it became old-fashioned and outdated. In fact, it's just as on trend as it ever was - perhaps even more so! Don't forget that Freestyle Step evolves with the changing trends, opinions and styles of both individuals and people in general.

Freestyle Step is still popular in other countries, and this is swinging back round to where it all started. We're starting to see a general improvement in people's opinion of Freestyle Step - and that's the way it should be! Nowadays, Freestyle Step is not only a staple gym class, but it's hip and trendy with some seriously cool instructors. Jump on the bandwagon now for what could possibly be the coolest way to keep fit of modern times.

#freestyle, #FreestyleStep, #step, 

Bruno Jimenez

October 2014

Is Freestyle Step For Me?

Keeping fit provides a wide range of health benefits. Aside from the actual shaping and toning which comes from keeping active, exercising releases a boost of endorphins into your bloodstream. These are feel-good hormones: exercise enhances your mood. When you join a gym, there is a huge range of options - often there are so many classes that it's overwhelming! Exercise is so good for you that it's something that everybody should participate in, but when you're spoilt for choice, how do you decide which class is for you?.

Having so many options means that it's very difficult to identify which classes will be fun, but at the same time be good for you. Which will be hard work? Which will tone your problem areas? Hopefully your gym staff members and personal trainers are not pushing a specific type of workout/exercise to meet their work quotas, and instead they have your needs and capabilities in their mind when you ask to them for advice, so they should be able to give adequate advice on what would work for you. If this is the case, the chances are that during your conversation, they'll mention Freestyle Step Aerobics! And if they don’t… just ask…. “…why are you not suggesting Freestyle Step Aerobics?”

What is Freestyle Step?

Freestyle Step is a variety of aerobics, which involves the use of a small step. The step can be height adjusted according to your requirements, but the idea is that you perform an aerobic routine beside, on top of, over and around your step. This is a basic description; there's much more to it than this!

The 'Freestyle' element comes in because the choreography is not fixed - it's up to each individual instructor to come up with a routine. There is plenty of room for flare and personality, as well as adjustments for what each member of the class is capable of. This method of working out gives you a lot of freedom!

Is Freestyle Step a good workout?

Yes!

As you move around your step, you'll be working your legs, right from your toes and ankles, all the way up to your bum and thighs. You'll stretch, you'll twist and you'll bend - this will all strengthen and tone your abs. The same can be said for your core. However, that's not all! Your instructor will probably incorporate some stretches and arm movements, exercising your arm and shoulder muscles.

As you can see, Freestyle Step gives your whole body a workout. There are hundreds of other classes and fitness techniques which just focus on one area: this isn't one of them. If you're looking for a good all-over workout, then you've come to the right place!

As well as the body, Freestyle Step is actually a great source of exercise for the mind, as well. With all the co-ordination that you'll require, your brain and body will both be worked! This doesn't just give you a great workout, but it provides you with a wonderful sense of satisfaction and achievement, as well.

I'm a beginner, will I cope?

Of course - there are classes aimed at different levels. For example, there are classes for those who are new to the gym or who aren't familiar with Freestyle Step. Then there are classes for those who have been involved for a while, and who need a bit more of a challenge. There are even classes for hardened fitness fanatics who really need to be pushed to their limits. Ultimately, the answer is yes! Whatever your skill level, there will be a class to suit you.

Some gym institutions may only offer intermediate/advance Freestyle Step classes, but don’t fret. Ultimately you tailor the class to “your” capabilities. A good instructor will provide “options” to push members to a more complex move. You can tailor this “option” to suit you, or…. remove it from your routine totally. However I do encourage you to give the option a try, challenge yourself, and remember…. you are meant to be having fun… if you don’t get it, just laugh it off, and you may try the option at a later time.

The beauty of this being a 'Freestyle' fitness method is that it can be tailored to the members of the class. It's up to each individual instructor to come up with the routine and moves involved, so if you're struggling, they can suggest changes for you to make which will be a lot more manageable! Have a chat with your instructor. You can join a class and still have the workout fit you.

Is Freestyle Step fun?

Define what “fun” means to you. Some people call “fun” having an easy routine that can be altered by the members. Others having and intense workout where legs and upper body are teased and prodded during the duration of the class is what they call fun, and everything in between, and around it.

Arguably, “fun” is the most important question you should ask about any gym class! If you're enjoying yourself then you're more likely to achieve better results - not just when working out, but in all aspects of your life!

You only have to look at how popular Freestyle Step has been over the years to tell you whether it's enjoyable or not. It took the world by storm! Why would so many thousands of people get involved, if they weren't having a good time? The sheer numbers of people who joined Freestyle Step classes speak for themselves.

Part of what makes Freestyle Step such a gratifying class to join is that there is so much personality and creativity involved. The moves that you'll make are all up to the instructor, so it'll be as fun as they can make it! Remember that they want to enjoy the class as much as you do, so they're doing the best to make sure you have a great time.

The music will be pounding, pulses will be racing, and don't forget - endorphins will be flowing!

Is Freestyle Step for me?

Ultimately, this is a decision which only you can make. Only you can say exactly what you're looking to achieve from a gym class, and only you can say what kind of fitness techniques you enjoy.

Even if you're still unsure, Freestyle Step is a great introduction into the world of keeping fit. So many of the moves, steps, techniques and props that you'll use are reflected in other classes. However, if you're already involved in the gym and enjoy keeping fit, then you needn't worry that this will be too boring. It's an excellent challenge for even the most keen gym-goers, and you can be sure that it will keep you on your toes (literally!).

Hopefully this will have answered all of your questions. Given that Freestyle Step is such a good workout, a challenging class and a fun way to spend your time, it's definitely worth trying out! You'll be working out every muscle of your body, which is the least a good workout should give you. At the end of the day, variations of Freestyle Step have been in gyms since the invention of gyms themselves - they must be doing something right!

You've worked hard to earn your money, and you'll be looking to spend it wisely. Luckily, Freestyle Step classes are so rewarding that without a doubt it's a class worth investing in!

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Next month I want to discuss "Why Freestyle Step Isn't As Outdated As You Might Thing". I keep hearing from many people that they find that in fact freestyle step is outdated, however is that their cope out line because they rather have an easier class, or want to do the same thing day in day out?.

Until the first week of October... I hope that no matter what you do, from time to time you have fun while stepping around your step!

#freestyle, #FreestyleStep, #step, 

Bruno Jimenez
September 2014