Stair climbing is a supercharged workout that targets the hamstrings, quadriceps, and glutes - and the best part is that it is free; and free is good!

Here are a few tips before you get started:

• Pay attention to the signals yours body gives. If your knees hurt, then stop.


• If you feel dizzy or weak, then stop and sit down.


• Go slowly until you become accustomed to the workout.


• Wear lightweight sneakers.


• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

Workout Program:

• Begin by stretching for 3 to 4 minutes.


• Gently walk up and down the staircase. Do at least 2 reps (up, down, up, down). Use the handrail for balance, if needed.


• Jog up and down the staircase. Do at least 2 reps. For a more advanced technique, try skipping steps going up, and jogging back down. Remember to work at a comfortable pace. There are no competitions here. This is your own personal journey.


• Next, side-step it all the way up and walk back down.


• Repeat, leading with your other side.


• Jog up and down the staircase. Do at least 2 reps. For a more advanced technique, try skipping steps going up, and jogging back down.


• With two feet together, jump up onto each step, and then walk back down.


• Gently walk up and down the staircase. Do at least 2 reps (up, down, up, down). Use the handrail for balance, if needed.


• Finally, end by giving yourself a good all over body stretch. Really take your time with these. Try holding each stretch for at least 30 seconds and remember to breathe.

Sculpt and tone every inch of your moneymaker with this ultimate, fat-burning plan that you can easily do anywhere. Taking the stairs has never been so much fun!

Do you have a staircase success story? How about more variations on this exercise? We'd love to chat about it in the forum. See you there!

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor and the articles I write are intended to increase your knowledge about the subject. It’s always a good idea to check with your personal doctor before changing your diet or starting an exercise program.