Heart disease is the number one cause of death the world over, and India is no exception. Poor lifestyle, obesity, smoking, drinking, and genetic factors all contribute to a weak heart. However, do you know that while you should get your heart tested regularly after 40, there is a simple home test that you can do as well, to gauge your heart health? Yes, that is right!
The magic number? Four flights of stairs
According to new research, simply timing how fast you can climb four flights of stairs can give you a good idea about your heart’s condition. Climbing stairs is something most people do every day, and it uses your heart, lungs, and muscles all at once. That’s why it’s a great way to see how well your heart is working.
How to do this test
Find a staircase with four flights (roughly 60 steps in total).
Start at the bottom and climb up as fast as you can, but don’t run.
Don’t stop in between, but keep a steady, brisk pace.
Use a stopwatch or your phone to time yourself.
Gauging your timing
Less than 1 minute: If you can climb four flights of stairs in under a minute, your heart is likely in good shape. This means your heart, lungs, and muscles are working well together. People who do this usually have a low risk of heart disease.
More than 1.5 minutes: If it takes you longer than 90 seconds (one and a half minutes), your heart health may not be optimal. This could mean your heart isn’t pumping as strongly as it should, or you might have other health issues. In this case, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor, especially if you also have chest pain or get out of breath easily.
What science says
A study by the European Society of Cardiology tested 165 people with suspected heart problems. After a treadmill test, they asked these people to climb four flights of stairs. Those who finished in less than 45 seconds had much better results on heart tests and a lower risk of heart disease. People who took longer than 90 seconds were more likely to have heart problems and a higher risk of serious illness in the next 10 years.
Why it matters
Your heart’s ability to handle physical activity is a strong sign of your overall health. If you struggle with the stairs test, it could mean your heart is not as healthy as it should be. This simple test can help you catch problems early, so you can make changes or get medical help if needed.
Disclaimer: This test is not a substitute for a medical check up, and in no way should be considered one. If you are worried about your heart, please visit a doctor regardless of the outcomes of this test.
The magic number? Four flights of stairs
According to new research, simply timing how fast you can climb four flights of stairs can give you a good idea about your heart’s condition. Climbing stairs is something most people do every day, and it uses your heart, lungs, and muscles all at once. That’s why it’s a great way to see how well your heart is working.
How to do this test
Find a staircase with four flights (roughly 60 steps in total).
Start at the bottom and climb up as fast as you can, but don’t run.
Don’t stop in between, but keep a steady, brisk pace.
Use a stopwatch or your phone to time yourself.
Gauging your timing
Less than 1 minute: If you can climb four flights of stairs in under a minute, your heart is likely in good shape. This means your heart, lungs, and muscles are working well together. People who do this usually have a low risk of heart disease.
More than 1.5 minutes: If it takes you longer than 90 seconds (one and a half minutes), your heart health may not be optimal. This could mean your heart isn’t pumping as strongly as it should, or you might have other health issues. In this case, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor, especially if you also have chest pain or get out of breath easily.
What science says
A study by the European Society of Cardiology tested 165 people with suspected heart problems. After a treadmill test, they asked these people to climb four flights of stairs. Those who finished in less than 45 seconds had much better results on heart tests and a lower risk of heart disease. People who took longer than 90 seconds were more likely to have heart problems and a higher risk of serious illness in the next 10 years.
Why it matters
Your heart’s ability to handle physical activity is a strong sign of your overall health. If you struggle with the stairs test, it could mean your heart is not as healthy as it should be. This simple test can help you catch problems early, so you can make changes or get medical help if needed.
Disclaimer: This test is not a substitute for a medical check up, and in no way should be considered one. If you are worried about your heart, please visit a doctor regardless of the outcomes of this test.
You may also like
JoJo Siwa says 'I don't like it' as she receives cold letter from partner inside the house
Sophie Turner and aristocrat boyfriend spark split rumours with telling clue
Pahalgam terror attack: AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam arrested over 'government conspiracy' remark
'I'm a wedding photographer and still cringe at worst best man speech ever'
Netanyahu to Meloni, top world leaders dial PM Modi to express shock over Pahalgam terror attack
