A new study has found that regularly taking the stairs can significantly reduce the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The research, released today (August 13), analysed data from over 480,000 participants and found a 39 per cent lower risk of heart-related death among regular stair climbers.
Study findings
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH). After reviewing nearly 1,900 studies, the team analysed data from nine high-quality studies with a median follow-up period of 14 years. Participants ranged in age from 35 to 84, with 53 per cent being women.
The findings showed that people who regularly climbed stairs were 39 per cent less likely to die from heart-related problems compared to those who did not. Additionally, stair climbers were less likely to develop major cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack, stroke, or heart failure.
Expert insights
Professor Vassilios Vassiliou from UEA’s Norwich Medical School said: "Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide - with cases nearly doubling between 1990 and 2019. But it is largely preventable through a healthy lifestyle - including regular physical activity, a heart-healthy diet, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. Taking the stairs is a practical and often overlooked way to build physical activity into daily life."
Dr Sophie Paddock, also from UEA’s Norwich Medical School and a cardiology specialist registrar at NNUH, said: "After pooling results from over 450,000 participants, we found a consistent association between stair climbing and lower risk of both cardiovascular death and overall mortality. Unlike going to the gym or doing a workout, climbing the stairs is something you can easily fit into your day at home, at work or when you're out. It's a good option for people who don't have much time or easy access to exercise. So if you have the choice of taking the stairs or the lift, go for the stairs as it will help your heart."
Practical considerations
The researchers noted that studies differ on the most beneficial "dose" of stair climbing. One study suggested that climbing around six flights of stairs per day may deliver the best results, while others focused on reinforcing evidence that even short bursts of exercise can aid health.
While urging more people to opt for stairs at work, home, and in public buildings, the researchers cautioned that it is not suitable for everyone, particularly those with mobility issues or joint conditions.
