Taking cardio in small steps is beneficial as Climbing 50 stairs daily reduces heart disease risk, according to a new study. The research, published in the journal Atherosclerosis, suggests that climbing at least five flights of stairs daily can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 20 per cent.
Cardiovascular diseases such as Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), coronary artery disease and strokes are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
In the words of Dr Lu Qi, who is a professor at Tulane University’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in New Orleans, “ High-intensity short bursts during stair climbing is an effective way to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and lipid profile, especially among those who are unable to achieve the current physical activity recommendations"
For the study, researchers used data from a UK Biobank of 450,000 adults and participants were analysed based on their family history of cardiovascular disease as well as their genetic risk factors and established risk factors.
According to The Independent Report, researchers analyzed data from the 'UK Biobank' where 450,000 adults and participants were examined based on their family history of cardiovascular disease as well as their genetic risk factors and established risk factors. The results showed that those who climbed more stairs daily were less likely to develop cardiovascular disease, according to the report. These results highlight the potential benefits of stair climbing as an important preventative measure against ASCVD among the general population.
A senior lecturer in sport and exercise at England’s Teesside University, Dr Nicolas Berger who was not a part of the study, says," Walking up staircases has more benefits than walking on a flat surface because climbing staircase requires the use of more muscles as well as some balance and gross motor skills."
Despite the fact that climbing stairs involves short bursts of activity, it still requires a lot of activity from your cardiovascular system, and that is why people often find themselves out of breath whilst climbing stairs, he added
As per Dr Berger, " Short breathing activities have shown beneficial results for heart health. They can increase your heart rate and oxygen uptake and result in positive adaptations in the body",
Further, he explains that taking 50 steps a day can have significant training effects. Such movement helps to activate body muscles such as the hamstring, glutes, quads and calves, as well as core muscles.
According to Dr Berger, if you're not into running, taking the stairs can be a beneficial option. This is because it's a convenient alternative to walking or running for most people, as stairs are easily accessible in homes and outdoor spaces.
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