Running stairs is a powerful addition to any training regimen. It has been used by athletes for decades now, and the reason it has sustained is because of its great effectiveness in building lower body strength and endurance. Nothing builds leg muscles better.

Because of the nature of the exercises the leg muscles are forced to work much harder than in normal running exercises. The mechanical trouble of pushing upward as you run causes them to push to the limit and increase in strength and power to overcome this problem.

Most beginners try between five and thirty repetitions to start, depending on what they are comfortable with. One step is a good way to start off such a regimen but two is a good challenge for most people. Three is good for genuine athletes, and four is Olympian caliber. Don't forget to stretch before and after this exercise to avoid tightening of the muscles.

Some athletes change up their routine by is by adding diagonal or side lunges to your stair running routine. This will further put your muscles at a disadvantage and strengthen them even further. And the new angles exercise and flex muscles that might not get used otherwise. The greater the range of motion used in your exercise the better your overall result is going to be.

Running steps is one of the best ways to build strength in key athletic muscles, and the practice is even more beneficial than it is given credit for in today's athletic culture. It is a vital addition to any serious cross training program.

Learn more about this author, Royce Radcliffe.
Click here to send 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!