Hitting 10,000 steps a day is a popular fitness goal for millions, but another exercise target may be even more effective when it comes to boosting heart health. Climbing just five flights of stairs a day may lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes, and the benefits appear to be even greater for those who can manage 10 flights or more. Climbing stairs offers a short burst of high-intensity exercise, much the same as aerobics. Stairs are a cheap and easy way to incorporate exercise into daily routines. As well as boosting heart health, experts say stair climbing burns twice the calories of walking and strengthens the lungs and muscles.
