While you know that climbing stairs helps you stay fit by burning calories and strengthening muscles, a new study has revealed that it can actually prolong life.
The review of nine studies looked at nearly five lakh people. Ages ranged from 35 to 84 and about 53% were women. The review found a link between climbing stairs and a reduced chance of dying from any cause. Researchers also found that taking the stairs may lower the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.
While there is insufficient research to recommend the number of stairs that is ideal, some studies suggest that 50-60 stairs should make an impact.
First systematic review
This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to specifically look at the association between stair climbing as a form of physical activity and cardiovascular risk, the researchers said. The findings, which haven’t been published in a peer-reviewed journal, were presented at a conference from the European Society of Cardiology in late April.
The team found that people who climbed stairs as a form of exercise had a 24% lower risk of “all-cause mortality,” or dying from any cause, compared to those who did not climb stairs. Stair climbers also had a 39% lower chance of dying from cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.
Vertical nature
The exercise’s benefits come from its vertical nature. Compared to an activity like walking on flat ground, climbing stairs involves more exertion for the body to move itself against gravity.
Not only does climbing stairs improve cardiorespiratory fitness, it also strengthens your posterior chain – glutes, hamstrings, hip flexors and calves, say fitness experts.
Look for stairs in your home, your workplace, anywhere you go. Climbing stairs is an exercise accessible to nearly all people. Download an app that tracks the number of steps or flights climbed to keep you motivated.
