3 of 5

Write now Article Tools

Learn to swear by, not swear at, running stadium stairs! Running stadium stairs improves muscular endurance and development, and your cardiovascular fitness. Running up the stairs and walking back down is a form of interval training, which quickly increases your heart and lung fitness. All of these improvements are ideal for cross-training and developing your overall fitness and strength.

Having to adjust to step height, running stadium stairs helps with "foot-eye" coordination, which is useful in sports like soccer and basketball where you have to move quickly and be aware of your teammates on the field or court.

Running stadium stairs is a high-intensity activity, and your body will learn to adapt to the buildup of lactic acid. Being psychologically prepared for burning muscles and fatigue is an excellent cross-training function when preparing for endurance events like cycling and triathlon.

As with the activity for which you are training, start slowly with running stadium stairs and gradually build intensity and duration. If you have developed a sufficient aerobic base, the intensity of running stairs will not require as much adjustment as for those just starting their conditioning program.

Give your body enough time to recover from running stadium stairs to prevent injury or burnout. Pay attention to your form: maintain an upright posture with a slight forward lean and plant each foot firmly on each stair.

Learn more about this author, Michelle Gardner.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The purpose of running stadium stairs for cross training?
We want to hear your view. Write now!