Stair Climbing are a critical part of any building as they allow us to move between levels. They are an integral part of a building’s structure and are seen in places like shopping malls, office buildings, and even in houses. And there are many benefits to climbing stairs as a form of cardio exercise, especially for those looking to maintain their fitness.
On the flip side, however, there are a few drawbacks to the activity that are worth mentioning. For instance, while stair climbing helps work out the muscles in your legs, it does not provide the same benefit to other muscles in the body.
Additionally, stair climbing can sometimes lead to injuries in the knees from overuse or strain on the soft tissues and bones. As a result, stair climbing may not be ideal for people who are carrying excess weight or have pre existing knee problems. In this article, we will look at the major disadvantages of climbing stairs.
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Disadvantages Of Climbing Stairs
Stairs Climbing can be Painful
One of the main disadvantages of climbing stairs is that it can be quite painful, no matter who you are. Even those who regularly exercise by climbing stairs can take a while to get used to the pain.
For those who are not used to climbing stairs, they will definitely feel the pain when and after they finish going up the stairs. And for those who regularly climb stairs as part of their exercise routine, it will take even longer for them to start feeling the excruciating pain that comes with the activity.
Contrary to those who are not accustomed to stair climbing, it’s only a matter of a few climbing before you start experiencing the pain. It can be a rather uncomfortable exercise, except for those who are looking to burn fats.
They can take the pain consciously, understanding that the pain is necessary if they’re going to actualize their goals. Otherwise, if you’re not doing this for burning fats, climbing stairs can be a rather painful exercise.
Stairs Climbing Does not Cater to Other Muscles in the Body
While it’s true that climbing stairs is a great way to work out your leg muscles, it’s not so great for other muscles in your body. That means that if you only rely on stair-climbing to stay in shape, you’re neglecting the rest of your muscles. It’s best to be aware of that early on, so you can make sure to mix up your workout routine.
Climbing Stairs Can Make You Lose Your Breath
Another disadvantage of climbing stairs is that it can cause people to breathe heavily, regardless of their fitness level. No matter your age or how in shape you are, you’ll still experience this while climbing.
And you don’t have to be medically unstable to face this challenge. Not to mention that it can pose more of a problem for people who are already struggling with respiratory issues. Imagine someone with breathing issues trying to climb stairs – it would be even more dangerous for them than it is for healthy individuals.
Not Safe for Medically Challenged Persons
While climbing stairs comes with a lot of advantages, it’s not safe for everyone to do it. For instance, if someone has a knee problem, they could do more harm than good by climbing too many stairs. This also goes for other medically challenged people.
Another drawback to climbing stairs is that it can be difficult for people with knee arthritis. Arthritis leads to degeneration of the cartilage that cushions the knee joint, making it painful and difficult to climb stairs.
However, it’s important to note that not everyone who is medically challenged is affected by climbing stairs. So, it depends on the severity of your health issue before climbing stairs can be termed safe or unsafe for you.
Not Ideal for the Elderly
Climbing stairs can be difficult for elderly people, who may not be able to access their homes or apartments if there are no elevators. This is not necessarily because they may have medical issues, but also because they are older and their bodies are not as resilient. Elder seniors above the age of 60s may still climb stairs but it will take them some time. Climbing stairs is simply not suitable for the elderly.
Not Ideal for Those On High Heels
Wearing high heels for climbing stairs is uncomfortable no matter how experienced you are. And you will start to feel this after only a few stairs climbs. So, another common downside to climbing stairs is that it is not suitable for those in high heels.
It can Cause Further Injuries for Those with Bone Problems
If you have arthritis in your knees, climbing stairs can be difficult and painful. For people with bone injuries, climbing stairs can be dangerous and may even cause further damage. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it is best to avoid stairs if you have any kind of bone injury.
Is It Safe to Climb Stairs Every Day?
Well, there’s nothing terrible about climbing stairs every day. In fact, this workout lowers resting heart rates. Additionally, since every trip up and down the stairs works different leg muscles, it also helps improve your balance. Not to mention, stair climbing also improves general well-being. All of these factors together are markers of good health.
Note that climbing stairs is not bad for your knees unless there’s damaged cartilage. It will basically subject your knees to stress and pains, just like running and deep knee bends.
Climbing Stairs vs. Running
Running and climbing stairs are two popular workout routines. They offer aerobic benefits and can help tone leg muscles and butts. However, stair climbing may offer more benefits than running or walking. If you climb stairs vigorously, the aerobic and calorie-burning benefits increase significantly. These benefits are more than what you get from walking or running. This practice subjects your kneecap to sliding up and down, working it out of the groove due to pressure.
