According to scientific research, this is the best sport for your health and it’s not running

A study conducted by Tulane University has highlighted the effectiveness of an unexpected activity for staying healthy. You might think of walking, running, or HIIT sessions. Not at all! It turns out to be stair climbing! This scientific research demonstrated that climbing 50 steps a day reduces the risk of heart disease by 20%. But the benefits of this activity, often overlooked in favor of elevators, are numerous. Let’s explain!

What are the health benefits of stair climbing?

Researchers at Tulane University found that taking the stairs significantly improves cardiovascular health. The numbers prove it! Climbing stairs for just a few minutes a day can already make a difference. This simple daily activity stimulates the heart, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the risk of strokes.

Moreover, climbing stairs works the muscles and improves balance. With each step you take, your quadriceps, glutes, and calves are engaged. Additionally, you strengthen your core at the same time. As a result, you become stronger, more stable, and gain better coordination. Stair climbing is especially beneficial for seniors because it significantly reduces the risk of falls by improving balance.

Want stronger bones? Climb stairs! It turns out that by countering gravity, you strengthen bone density, thereby preventing osteoporosis. Another notable benefit of this practice is that it relieves stress. When you move, your body produces endorphins, the so-called happiness hormones. To top it off, it’s a completely free activity that doesn’t require any special equipment.

Why is stair climbing better than other physical activities?

While walking, running, and many other physical exercises are known for their benefits, stair climbing has long been overlooked. However, it is far more interesting for taking care of your health. It works the muscles more intensely and raises the heart rate more quickly. According to specialists, climbing stairs for 20 minutes is equivalent to a moderate run. At the same time, it protects the joints due to its low impact.

Taking the stairs also helps with weight loss. Indeed, you burn more calories climbing stairs than walking on a flat surface. You can achieve almost the same results as practicing high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which is more technical and requires greater effort.

Sources :

https://news.tulane.edu/pr/walking-more-five-flights-stairs-day-can-cut-risk-heart-disease-20-study-says

https://www.atherosclerosis-journal.com/article/S0021-9150(23)05221-8/fulltext