Skip the elevator: 5 health benefits of taking the stairs
What's the story
Stair climbing is a simple but effective exercise that can be easily included in your daily routines. It needs no special equipment and can be done almost anywhere. Not only does the activity help you stay fit but also offers several surprising benefits. From improving cardiovascular health to boosting mental well-being, stair climbing is more than just a way to get from one floor to another.
Heart health
Boosts cardiovascular health
Climbing stairs regularly can significantly improve your cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and enhancing circulation. This activity strengthens the heart muscle, which in turn allows better blood flow and reduces the risk of heart disease. In fact, studies have shown that engaging in stair climbing for just a few minutes every day can lower the risk of developing hypertension by up to 10%.
Muscle building
Enhances muscle strength
Stair climbing is one of the best ways to build and tone muscles, especially in the legs and lower body. The repeated motion of climbing stairs works on different muscle groups including quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and glutes. This way, you can develop muscle strength and endurance over time without having to lift heavy weights or use gym equipment.
Calorie burning
Aids weight management
One of the most surprising benefits of stair climbing is that it burns calories like nothing else. Not only it keeps you fit, but it also helps manage weight by increasing metabolism and driving fat loss. On an average, a person weighing around 70 kilograms burns around 0.17 calories per step climbed. Including stair climbing in the daily routine can take you a long way towards weight management.
Mental health boost
Improves mental well-being
Stair climbing, as a form of physical activity, triggers the release of endorphins, aka feel-good hormones. These natural chemicals are key to reducing stress and enhancing mood, thus contributing significantly to mental well-being. Regularly engaging in stair climbing has been associated with reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, making it a beneficial exercise for both physical and mental health.
Bone health
Increases bone density
Stair climbing also does wonders for your bones. Since it is a weight-bearing exercise, it promotes bone growth and increases density over time. This helps in preventing diseases like osteoporosis, as your bones become stronger with regular impact forces from every step you take on the stairs.