Effects of climbing stairs were examined on arterial stiffness, blood pressure, and leg strength in postmenopausal women with stage 2 hypertension, effects which had not been analyzed previous to this study. The participants were required to climb 192 steps 2-5 times each day, four days a week. Participant muscle strength was observed to be improved in their legs, and their blood pressure decreased, according to the researchers.
Menopause can cause headaches, hot flashes, night sweats, and depression among other symptoms, as well as memory loss, weight gain, and bone disease. Risk for depression increases as a woman’s reproductive hormones begin to decline. Postmenopausal women are more prone to having lower estrogen levels which can lead to muscular and blood pressure problems making this type of exercise needed.
Women can exercise without having to leave their homes, buy special equipment, or pay any fees. Exercise will help to improve overall health, assist in weight loss/management, improve lipid profiles, and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other health concerns in not only postmenopausal women but it carries these benefits for everyone.
“This study demonstrates how simple lifestyle interventions, such as stair climbing can be effective in reducing the negative effects of menopause,” said Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, executive director of the North American Menopause Society.
