Optimal height for stepups?

[techboy]

Hi guys -

I've just started doing the Peakbagger programming from Mountain Athlete. There are thousands of stepups that you do in this schedule. I've never really done step ups seriously before ('cuz squats are alpha, so I thought).

 

What is the optimal height for doing step ups? I read 90 degrees hip angle, but when I do them, I do them with an 18" step bench and I'm pretty sure I'm over 90 degrees - I'm a short guy! Am I setting up myself for a lifetime handicapped parking pass by going greater than 90?

 

Thanks!

 

[John Frieh]

Yes. Less than 90 is much safer. Even better: go hiking outside

[techboy]

Yes. Less than 90 is much safer. Even better: go hiking outside

 

Yeah, if only I could! I don't think I could manage more than once a week. Have to juggle kids and career like all the other sheep. 10 years ago I once had a brief stint where I was unemployed and I was able to get out several times a week, and gas was cheap back then. What an awesome time that was!

 

Anyways, this program looks promising - here is a sample (Day 11)

 

1) 600x step ups @ 25#, Moderate Pace

2) Run 1.5 miles, Threshold Pace

 

3) 600x step ups @ 25#, Moderate Pace

4) Run 1.5 miles, Threshold Pace

 

5) 200x step ups @ 25#, Moderate Pace

6) Run 1.0 miles, Threshold Pace

[genepires]

maybe get a 2x4 and cut it into 1ft pieces and nail them together in a way to make a higher prestep so the actual step is not so high?

 

day 11 sounds horrible. but effective.

[giza]

Doesn't Mtn Athlete provide you with support? Seems misdirected to be asking this question here.

 

I have looked into their programming but, being the cheap bastard that I am, never wanted to fork over the cash.