Researchers from Tulane University report that climbing more than 50 stairs each day can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by about 20 percent. The findings appeared in the journal Atherosclerosis.
The analysis drew on data from 450,000 adults in the UK Biobank. Participants were followed for roughly 12.5 years on average. Researchers estimated each person’s risk for cardiovascular disease by looking at family medical history and lifestyle choices.
The study linked daily stair climbing with a roughly 20 percent reduction in heart disease risk, and it found that the more stairs a person climbed, the greater the protective effect. The benefit appeared strongest for individuals at the highest risk.
According to the researchers, short bursts of high intensity effort while climbing stairs can be an effective and gentle way to improve heart and lung health, as well as lipid profiles. This approach may be especially helpful for those who struggle to meet standard physical activity guidelines. The authors emphasize that stair climbing could play a meaningful role in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
The World Health Organization advises adults ages 18 to 64 to aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity each week, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity. It is also recommended to include strength training at least twice a week.
Earlier findings by scientists also suggested that short, frequent bursts of activity throughout the day can contribute to lower stroke risk.