Exercising: Does taking the stairs count?

Date Updated: 04/25/2020

Answer Section

Yes. Climbing stairs is an example of a practical, everyday physical activity that provides health benefits. It can also burn off calories — about 65 calories in 15 minutes. Going at a faster pace or carrying heavier items can burn even more calories.

The Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following activity levels for adults:

Muscle-strengthening exercises at least two days a week
At least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity, 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity a week, or an equivalent combination of moderate and vigorous activity

Aim to do physical activity for about 30 minutes on most days of the week. You can break it up into short chunks of time during the day. Some examples of physical activity include walking briskly, jogging or bicycling.

Taking the stairs can be one way to include physical activity into your daily routine. Some other ideas could include parking farther away from your destination, taking short walk breaks during the day, or doing yardwork or housework.