by Landon Hillyard

Created on: August 03, 2007

Put a whole new meaning to Stadium of Fire. I have been running stairs in my local college for the past few weeks, and have some results and tips for anyone considering.
First of all for some of the results you will get. You have to realize that you will hit your high heart rate extremely fast, much faster than just running. This is useful for people who want to get a good work out very quickly. Second you should know that running stairs is very different then running around the block. When you are requiring your quads and glutious maximus(butt) to push you up and forward the muscle strain is much greater. Your legs will get sorer faster. Don't think that you won't get a cardio work out too though. The muscles you are using are some of the biggest on your body and they require a lot of oxygen which means your going to be breathing hard. You will also use a lot of other small muscle groups you wouldn't think you would. For example when your legs start to give out at the top of the stair case you will try to use your shoulder and arms to get momentum. When your all finished you might notice your shoulders and arms are sore. Overall you will find you get improved coordination, muscle strength, and cardio endurance extremely fast.

As for tips for running stairs there are a few small suggestions. First of all come ready to sweat. You are not going to be running so there is not as much air flowing past your body. You sweat much more so drink plenty of water. Make sure you start out small. I sometimes try to go for unachievable goals and I end up overstraining myself. You don't want to make this a bad experience. Take some music with you it helps keep you motivated. Focus because there is nothing worse than falling down a set of stairs. Mix it up a little, if your heart and lungs are exhausted but your legs feel good try going up them side wards or backwards, you will find you work new muscle groups. Last of all have a good time.

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