The Only Way to Go is UP!

Have you ever tried to get in more daily steps by taking the stairs instead of an elevator?  Or have you tried the stairs to avoid an elevator full of people (especially when they were unmasked)?  Or have there been times when you just thought the fastest way to get to where you were going was to take the stairs? 

I do all the above.  But stairs are more than just an alternative to elevators.  They are also a good way to work your legs and your lungs. 

I recently learned that stair climbing is an actual activity.  There are Facebook groups for stair climbing enthusiasts.   People share their success stories, spread the word about new stair races, and tell you where you can find stairs to climb.    

This past Sunday, I was part of a team of four women (all of us over 60) who climbed just under 1,400 stairs as part of the 2022 Los Angeles Fight For Air Climb, sponsored by the American Lung Association.  It was great fun and something I will do again.   

Some of the participants were veteran stair climbers.  Others, like me and my client Beth, were newcomers.  Regardless, all of us embraced the challenge as challenges make us better both physically and mentally.  The American Lung Association also teaches us that healthy lungs need clean air to breathe, and through our fundraising efforts for the Lung Association every step gets us closer to a world without lung disease.

The health benefits to climbing are many. 

• It improves balance and coordination.

• It strengthens more major muscle groups compared to walking, running, or jogging on a flat surface.

• Consistent stair-climbing as a daily activity can help lower mortality risk.

There are stairs where most of us live, work, and travel.  Try taking the stairs the next time you find yourself in an office building or a hotel.  Find secret stair hikes near where you live.  There are many in Los Angeles.   Wherever the stairs are, give them a try.

If you feel you need to be in better shape before you start, I’ll be waiting for your call to get you started.

My client and climbing partner, Beth with our medals.