WORK OUT-STAIR CLIMBING

STAIR CLIMBING



Stair Climbing Basics

stair climbing :Stair climbing at the gym gives you the challenge of climbing real stairs without the impact and pressure on your knees.

Stair climbers simulate climbing real stairs. Most are of the stepper variety, where you stand on two foot plates, hold onto the handrails and alternate pressing one foot down as you pick the other one up. There are also rolling staircases, which are a cross between a staircase and a treadmill.

These machines often have programs to focus on specific areas. Or, you can control variables such as pace, duration and sometimes resistance and step height.

Most people think stair climbers intended for home use don't feel as good or as smooth as the high-quality stair-climbing machines found in gyms.

Upside of Stair Climbing

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You burn more calories and strengthen your bones because this activity is weight-bearing.

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Stair climbing is low impact, so the risk of injury is lower than that of climbing real stairs.

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Using a stair climber prepares you for climbing the stairs you encounter throughout your day.

Downside of Stair Climbing

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Stepping on a stair climber takes practice, and you may feel a bit clumsy at first.

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Some people complain of knee, hip or low back discomfort while climbing. Improper technique such as leaning too far forward, short stepping or stepping too quickly may cause this, or it may simply be a poor exercise choice for some people.

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If treadmills, elliptical trainers and stationary bikes bore you, this probably will too.

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The stepper variety doesn't do that great a job of mimicking climbing real stairs, so there's little crossover effect.



Is Stair Climbing for You?

This chart can help you see how stair climbing fits your goals and lifestyle concerns.


Body Parts Worked :Cardiovascular system, legs, butt.
Calories Burned : About 408 calories an hour for a 150-pound person, 544 for a 200-pound person.
Gear : The machine, workout clothes, shoes and a water bottle.
Instruction/Facilities : You'll find stair climbers at almost any gym because they are one of the most popular pieces of cardiovascular equipment. If you buy one for home, don't waste your money on a cheap one.
Time :20-60 minutes a session.
Schedule/Flexibility : Depends on gym's hours.

Stair Climbing Tips

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Proper stair-climbing technique is key to preventing pain and burning calories. Choose a comfortable stepping pace.

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Take 6- to 8-inch steps.

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Stand up tall with your hands resting lightly on the handrails.

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Remember: The handrails are there to provide balance. Don't drape yourself over them or otherwise get overdependent on them.