In today’s fast-paced world, individuals often opt for the convenience of escalators and elevators to save time. In contrast, the choice of taking the stairs may seem like a minor action, but it is actually beneficial for both fitness and health in general. Seven-time Mr. Olympia winner Arnold Schwarzenegger recently endorsed this simple yet effective way to keep your heart strong.

Schwarzenegger also suffered from a life-threatening heart condition he had since birth. However, he went through with three heart surgeries and still came out strong. Now, in his newsletter, he sheds light on how the simple habit of taking the stairs can significantly reduce the chances of developing heart disease.

Arnold Schwarzenegger advocates climbing 50 steps a day 

In his newsletter, Arnie discussed the positive impacts of using stairs instead of escalators. According to him, “Research suggests that taking the stairs daily can cut your risk of heart disease or stroke by 20 percent.” He showed a new study, where researchers paid a close look to over 458,000 people, observing their habits of using stairs for 12 years. The researchers found, “a clear relationship between those who walked stairs daily and a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease.”

He explained that people don’t need to climb a mountain of steps. Instead, “Walking five flights of stairs — or about 50 steps — per day was enough to increase heart protection and reduce disease,” stated the 76-year-old.

He also used a reference to Michael Easter’s book, “The Comfort Crisis,” and highlighted the shocking statistic that only 2 percent of people take the stairs over escalators. Being a health expert himself, Schwarzenegger once revealed how he was devastated when he found out about the underlying condition seen in his family history. But, Arnie did not let it get to him.

Schwarzenegger overcame his family’s underlying condition

In an earlier interview, the bodybuilding icon admitted that when his mom had a slight heart problem, they went to UCLA for a checkup, revealing a family history of bicuspid aortic valve. Initially, he was shocked by this revelation but, doctors advised him to take up regular heart checkups. In 1994, after filming True Lies, his doctors warned him that his heart was weakening, and urgently needed a valve replacement. Post Batman & Robin in 1997, he got both valves replaced, but the first attempt failed due to high blood pressure.

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When someone of Arnie’s stature who survived a major heart problem advocates a simple way to prevent such issues, one can’t help but pay attention. Do you think you will put this simple trick into practice? Let us know in the comments below.

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