Q My friend wants me to go to a step class with her. She thinks it will be really good for losing weight around the hips and thighs but my co-ordination is terrible. Step classes look so complicated!

A Starting a step class will definitely help you to lose weight. Our bodies use up stored fat to produce energy when we ask them to work at a rate which makes us feel moderately puffed out and break into a sweat. But fat will be used from all over the body, so expect to see an overall weight loss.

Stepping will have a toning effect on your hips and thighs because your muscles will have to repeatedly lift the weight of your body on to the step. The muscles in your legs will eventually become stronger and firmer, but you will need to lose any fat on top of the muscle to achieve weight loss,

An advantage of weight-bearing exercise is the bone-strengthening effect which helps prevent osteoporosis. Step classes involve learning a pattern of movements and repeating them. It's great mental exercise as well as getting you fit, and also improves your motor skills - co-ordination, reaction time and agility.

Choose a class suitable for your level. If the class is intermediate it may be too complicated and you will be frustrated. Get to the class early and ask the instructor for advice. He or she will probably recommend you forget about the arm movements and concentrate on getting your legs going in the right direction.

Set your step up in the middle of the class rather than on the back row. That way, you will always have a more experienced stepper in front of you so you can follow their moves even if you have to turn around during the routine. Don't use any risers the first time (those things you put under your step to make it higher). And give yourself time. Allow three sessions to get used to the workout and you will be surprised how well you progress.