Stairs and Other Simple ‘Steps’ For Getting into Shape

You walk up to an elevator and notice the sign for the stairs close by. You stop and consider the options but decide to press the up button and take the ride to where you’re going.

Come on, admit it; you’ve done this! If you’re trying to get into shape, however, going for the ride might not be doing you any favors. Using the stairs whenever possible instead of an elevator is just a very simple way to add a little more exercise into your daily routine!

Even if you work on the 10th floor of a 20 story building, a little stair walking can do you a whole lot of good. Start out small, climb the stairs from the first to the second floor and then hitch the ride the rest of the way. After you can easily tackle the single flight, start adding more. Before long, you’ll be skipping the elevator all together.

If you really want to put those stairs to good use, climb them even when you don’t have to. Rather than just take the stairs on your way into and out of work, consider using part of your lunch break to walk – or better yet – run a few flights.

Why?

Stair climbing is just a great cardiovascular activity. It gets you up and moving and your blood pumping. Plus, you’re going to find that your endurance is likely to increase the more regularly you work stair climbing into your routine.

Now, let’s say you don’t work in an office with stairs or have them at home. You can still opt to climb anytime you’re in a location that has stairs.

Need Other Simple Ways to Exercise?

Taking the stairs is a great place to start with adding exercise into your routine. If you’re looking for other simple measures you can take, here are a few:

1. Run in place – This is a great way to get the blood pumping, especially if you work sitting down and just need to move once in a while.
2. Park far way – Skip going for that front-row parking space and hike from the back lot into the office, the store and so on.
3. Walk – Just getting up brisk walking once or a few times a day can make a big difference.

If it’s time to increase your fitness level, little measures can go a long way. For more impactful results, consider working with the experts at your local gym or fitness center. They’ll have some great advice on steps you can take to get into shape and stay that way!