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Turn Step: How to Do the Step, Count and Common Mistakes

The Turn Step is a classic move in Step Aerobics where you travel across the top of the bench from one end to the other. It is a beginner to intermediate move that adds a fun change of direction to your routines. You will see this step frequently in traditional step classes when the instructor wants you to switch sides with a bit of flair.

Step card

Count
1, 2, 3, 4
Level
Beginner to intermediate
Found in
Step Aerobics
In short
Traveling across the top of the step from one end to the other

The timing

step (weight change) touch, kick or sound hold

How to do it

  1. Count 1: Step your lead foot onto the center of the step board, turning your body slightly to the side.
  2. Count 2: Bring your other foot up onto the board, stepping wide and turning your body to face the other end of the room.
  3. Count 3: Step your lead foot down backward off the board to the floor.
  4. Count 4: Step your other foot down next to it, completing the move and leaving you ready to lead with the same foot.

Tips

  • Keep your core engaged and your chest lifted as you rotate to maintain good balance.
  • Make sure your entire foot lands securely on the step platform to protect your ankles.
  • Let your arms swing naturally with your leg movements to keep your momentum flowing.

Common mistakes

  • Heels hanging off the board. Always place your whole foot on the step platform to avoid slipping or straining your calves.
  • Twisting the knees. Pick up your feet to turn your body instead of pivoting on planted feet.
  • Looking down constantly. Keep your posture tall and glance at the step using your peripheral vision.

Variations and practice

  • Practice the footwork on the flat floor without a bench until you feel confident with the directional changes.
  • Add a hop on the top of the step for a higher impact variation.
  • Add a knee lift at the end instead of a simple step down to flow right into a knee repeater.

Related steps

When to check in with a doctor or physical therapist

  • Pain in a knee, ankle or hip that sharpens when you turn, pivot or land
  • Dizziness, chest discomfort or unusual shortness of breath
  • Pain that is still there the next day or keeps coming back after practice

General information, not medical advice. If you have a heart, joint or balance condition, are pregnant or are returning after an injury, check with your doctor or physical therapist before starting a new dance workout.

How this page was made. Step data (count, timing pattern, level, styles) compiled by the Rhythm Desk from common teaching practice; counts can differ between teachers. Text drafted with AI assistance and checked by the Rhythm Desk; see how we write. Last checked October 2026.