Should you climb stairs at work?

Instead of taking the elevator, some office workers often take advantage of climbing stairs as a way to exercise while working.

Going up and down stairs also brings many health benefits - Photo: CN

The choice between taking the stairs or using the elevator depends on your health status, personal goals and specific circumstances. Dr. Vo Chau Duyen (head of the trauma and orthopedics department at Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital) gives advice on taking the stairs:

Benefits of taking the stairs

Improve heart health: Climbing stairs increases your heart rate, improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

Effective weight loss support: This activity burns a lot of calories, helps reduce belly fat and improve body shape.

Strengthens muscles: Stair climbing works major muscle groups like the thighs, buttocks and calves, helping to increase strength and flexibility.

Improve mental health: Physical activity like climbing stairs releases endorphins, reduces stress and improves mood.

Increases stamina and fitness: Regular stair climbing improves stamina, which is especially helpful for people with sedentary lifestyles.

Improve lung function: Climbing stairs increases lung capacity and improves respiratory function.

But on the other hand, there are also many cases where climbing stairs is contraindicated:

People with joint or heart problems: Using elevators helps reduce pressure on joints and the heart, which is especially important for the elderly or those with underlying medical conditions.

When carrying heavy objects: Elevators are a safe choice when moving furniture or heavy objects between floors.

Too tired from work: On tired days or when you need to save energy for other activities, the elevator helps save your body's energy.

How to take stairs for good health

Below are effective and safe stair climbing techniques advised by doctors:

1. Correct posture

Keep your back straight and eyes looking forward: Avoid bending over or looking down too much to maintain balance and reduce pressure on the spine.

Place your entire foot on the step: Don't just rest your toes on the step to avoid putting pressure on your knees and ankles.

Walk gently and steadily: Avoid stomping to reduce shock to joints.

Use handrails when necessary: ​​Especially helpful for the elderly or those with balance problems.

2. Technique "Up with strong leg, down with weak leg"

When climbing stairs, start with your stronger leg to reduce pressure on your weaker leg. When descending, start with your weaker leg to gain better control of the movement.

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HUY DANG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/co-nen-leo-cau-thang-o-cho-lam-20250416130307501.htm