Improve Your Health With One Small Step
Why I Take The Stairs Everywhere I Go
After reading that Bruce Lee, one of my youth idols, always took the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator, I started doing the same. When an opportunity to get a workout presents itself, no matter how small, I take it. For example, a 10 minute walk 3 times per day is equal to one 30 minute walk.
With this philosophy in mind, even if I only walk a few flights per day, that is added exercise. And although I always work out religiously, this small change is important because it forced me to look for ways to integrate exercise into my daily life. This might include parking further away from the entrance to a store, choosing to walk or bike instead of driving, or jumping on a pull up bar on a running path for some chin ups or hanging leg lifts.
When I started to make choices like this, I noticed enhanced awareness around all aspects of my health and fitness. Challenge yourself and take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator for one month and see what happens for you. This simple change can have a significant impact over time. Below are some further benefits:
1. It’s a free workout that you can integrate into your day easily. You don’t need a gym membership. Even if you only have a 20 minute break, what would happen if you climbed up the stairs in your office building nonstop during that time every day?
2. It all adds up. Even if you only climb one to two flights at a time it will all add up at the end of the day, week, month and year.
3. Climbing is good for your heart, lungs, and muscles.
4. It actually can save you time. Often when I see an escalator next to a set of stairs, I beat the people taking the escalator as I walk up the stairs. What about when you are traveling and you have heavy bags? Bonus time! I take it as a challenge and get even more of a workout when I choose the stairs. Give it a try!
5. Exercise is proven to reduce stress and release endorphins. Even if it is just a mini exercise, it helps and all adds up!
6. Weight loss will result from the extra calories burned. Depending on how many stairs you climb per day, you could shed anywhere from five to ten pounds in one year just from making this simple change.
7. Gain confidence by improving your health. It feels great to be healthy and this small step (pardon the pun) can make a significant impact on your health.
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