Step Up

Here’s an exercise that can boost your heart, brain and muscles. And all you need is a set of stairs

Here’s more proof you don’t need an expensive gym membership to get fit. It turns out that the perfect tool for total body and mind health was staring us in the face the whole time. Climbing the stairs is one of the simplest and most effective ways to give your heart, brain and muscles a boost – and is convenient thanks to Singapore’s thousands of high-rise buildings.

WEIGHT LOSS

Stair climbing burns eight to 11 calories (33 to 46 kJ) per minute and adding in two flights daily can lead to 2.72 kg of weight loss over a year, according to a US study. And no wonder – it’s twice as taxing as a brisk walk, according to Harvard research, and 50 per cent more challenging than walking up a steep incline.