Taking the stairs instead of the lift whenever you can.
The Basics
Any increase in activity helps you keep, and stay, fit. Walking up stairs is a good way to increase stamina, fitness levels and burns more calories than walking on a level surface. If you can master the stairs, the footpath will be an easy walk.
Myths, misconceptions and excuses
- “I get out of breath using the stairs” – If you find you get out of breath walking up a few flights of stairs, then you need to walk up a few flight of stairs more often. The more times you take the stairs, the easier it will become.
Tips & tricks
- If you park in the multi story car park – head to the higher levels or lower levels if it’s underground – these levels will probably be emptier (easier parking) and you can use the stairs to exit (if late at night or dark – remember, safety first and park where you feel it is the safest).
- Shopping malls often have lifts – leave them for those with prams and do your retail therapy using the stairs – it will help you get into a smaller trouser/dress size quicker.
- If you use a lift at work, get off one (or several) levels before or after your floor – take the stairs – arrive at your desk alert and awake.
- Whenever you’re out (unless you really have to) make a vow never to use the lift to go just 1 or 2 levels, up or down.