"Don't be afraid to look stupid, because you will," advise Adrienne Robinson, a long-time Silicon Valley fitness instructor. "Don't expect to get it all the first time, because you won't. Just listen to the music, listen to the terminology, and try to learn it. Have fun, and come back again, and come back again, and come back again. Repetition is key."

Here are a few pointers so you’ll want to go back:

Before Class

• Call or visit the aerobics director to ask which class or teacher is best for novices. Some clubs have introductory how-to sessions that teach you what to expect in class.
• Arrive a few minutes before class so you can talk to the teacher, tell him or her you're new, and ask about any tips that will help you through the class.
• Try not to miss the first couple of minutes of class. That's when many teachers explain a new movement or introduce something different they will do that day.
• Out of courtesy, tell instructors if you have to leave early, or if you might not make it through the whole class, so they won't think you just hated them.
• Forget the matching headbands, belts and socks. Forget legwarmers. All are passe. All will brand you as a beginner with a capital B. More and more, an athletic look with thigh-length tights and crop tops or tees -- rather than thongs or stringy tank tops -- are in.

During Class

• Have a towel handy to wipe any sweat from your mat, equipment or step.
• Wear appropriate aerobics shoes built for the movements common in classes so you don't hurt yourself. Thin canvas sneakers are out, and cheaper isn't better. Leave the old gardening tennies in the closet.
• Try to find the beginning and end of a routine to better track the progression. Then it doesn't seem an endless stream of nonsensical jumps, turns and twists.
• Feel free to eliminate arm patterns or modify the movements in any way you need. Many classes will attract students at many levels -- some more advanced than you -- so egos have to be checked at the door.
• During strength or toning sets, pick the lightest weights your first time, or use no weights and just learn proper form.
• Don't expect the workout of your life the first few times since you might be putting more energy into the terminology or into going in the right direction. You don't want to crash into the woman next to you.

After Class

• Ask the instructor to explain or to break down in slow motion any patterns, steps or stretches you didn't understand.
• Try not to leave early since the cool-down and stretches at the end are important to avoid injury. If you must leave early, take a moment in the locker room to stretch.
• Laugh at yourself. Recall the boos-boos you made and giggle at little. Who cares really?

Remember, taking an aerobics class -- like participating in any sport -- is a skill that must be learned. You wouldn't expect to slam-dunk baskets your first time on the basketball court, would you?