The aerobic-step exercise training protocol included methodically planned 60-minute training sessions with the following components:

Warm-up Phase (10 minutes): Low-intensity aerobic movements that are intended to slowly raise heart rate and ready the cardiovascular system for more vigorous exercise. This phase consisted of low stepping movements, arm circles, and dynamic stretching exercises. Main Exercise Phase (40 minutes): Aerobic-step exercise routines done on adjustable step platforms.Step height was individualized according to participant fitness level and progressed incrementally during the course of the intervention. Exercises consisted of simple step-ups, lateral steps, knee lifts, and complex choreographed movement patterns incorporating both lower and upper body movements. Music with suitable tempo was used to help maintain rhythm and motivation. Cool-down Phase (10 minutes): Progressive decrease in the intensity of exercise coupled

Warm-up Phase (10 minutes): Simple aerobic movements akin to the step group but with focus on core engagement and spinal mobility. This phase involved marching in place, slow torso rotations, and preparatory core engagement exercises. Main Exercise Phase (40 minutes): Strength and stability exercises targeting the core and integrating aerobic movements. Planks, modified crunches, bridge exercises, stability ball exercises, Pilates160 inspired movements, and functional core strengthening exercises were included in this phase. The aerobic element was preserved by using continuous movement patterns and circuit-style training to keep heart rate within the desired zone.

Exercise Protocol

Total Session Duration: 60 minutes

Session Structure:

Warm-up Phase (10 minutes)

Low-intensity aerobic movements designed to slowly raise heart rate and prepare the cardiovascular system for more vigorous exercise. This phase consisted of:

• Low stepping movements

• Arm circles

• Dynamic stretching exercises

Main Exercise Phase (40 minutes)

Aerobic-step exercise routines performed on adjustable step platforms. The protocol included:

• Step Height: Individualized according to participant fitness level and progressed incrementally during the intervention

•

Exercise Components:

• Simple step-ups

• Lateral steps

• Knee lifts

• Complex choreographed movement patterns incorporating both lower and upper body movements

• Music: Suitable tempo music was used to help maintain rhythm and motivation

Cool-down Phase (10 minutes)

Progressive decrease in exercise intensity coupled with:

• Stretching exercises

• Heart rate recovery period

• Breathing exercises

To analyze the effects of a 24-week supervised step aerobics and core exercise program on serum non-HDL-C levels (measured in mg/dL via standard lipid panel analysis) in overweight or obese, sedentary individuals.