Why You Should Take the Stairs
By Sara Butler
When it comes to the activities you do each day, there are a few things that you can do to gradually boost your level of fitness -- and one of those ways is by simply choosing to take the stairs! It can seem exhausting to choose the stairs over that easy-to-use elevator, but there are some major benefits to reap for your health in a short period of time by making this choice. Here are a few!
It’s Really Efficient
Taking the stairs is exercise -- exercise that gets you somewhere. It’s an effective form of activity you can seamlessly work into your day to get you someplace you were already going in the first place. Two birds, one stone.
Five minutes on the stairs is equal to about 20 minutes on a cardio machine at the gym. Why? That vertical component really takes it over the top to help you get to the top and is more efficient and effective than many other types of cardio you could be doing. So, think about that next time you have to choose between the stairs and the elevator.
It Helps Build Cardiovascular Health
When people think of cardio, they often think of getting out and pounding some pavement with a run or treading on the treadmill, but the truth of the matter is that you don’t have to break a sweat to help increase the health of your heart.
You can reduce your risk of stroke and heart disease by moving for just 30 minutes a day -- and that 30 minutes doesn’t even need to be all at once. When you combine regular activity with a healthy diet, you’re going to see an improvement in your cardiovascular health -- and taking the stairs is a step in that direction!
It’s Good for Your Mental Health
Exercise does more than just give your cardiovascular health a boost, it also helps to give your mental health a boost too. Regular exercise helps to reduce stress and will make taking on other healthy habits easier too.
Your Legs Get Stronger
Taking the stairs works multiple muscle groups, helping to build muscle and strengthen joints all at once. Your quads, butt, and calves all stand to gain power from a few stairs per day, which helps to stabilize your knees and ankles too.
Next time you're faced with the choice, do your health a favor and take the stairs!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Hoboken, N.J.