The aim of this research was to identify the effect of programmed classes of step aerobics in 7 th grade female pupils. The research was conducted on the sample of 63 seventh-grade female pupils, divided into the experimental (n=32) and control (n=31) target groups. The effects of step aerobics were observed in the area of motor abilities (16 variables) and cardio-respiratory functions (3 variables). The step aerobics classes lasting eight weeks and conducted within regular PE classes represented the experimental factor. ANOVA 2x2 results indicate that step aerobics classes statistically significantly contributed to the improvement of 15 variables of the experimental group compared to the control group in the area of motor abilities and all variables in the area of cardio-respiratory functions. The greatest improvement was detected in non-rhythmic drumming (F=263.43; p<0.001), hand and feet drumming (F=103.83; p<0.001) and maximum oxygen consumption (F=104.29; p<0.001). Based on the obtained results, we can conclude that step aerobics classes, as an innovative programme component, have practical use in teaching aiming to distribute exercise in a precise manner and to achieve objectives and tasks of physical education.