Training Effects of Stair-Climbing During Office Hours on Female Employees

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Abstract
The feasibility of increased stair-climbing during office hours and the resulting training effects were evaluated in volunteer female subjects (mean age 30-8 yrs). Subjects were divided into exercise (stair-climbing) and control (lift-riding) groups. 59 females climbed stairs for 12 weeks and 26 females for 24 weeks. The mean number of floors climbed was 65 floors week−1. Daily stair-climbing consisted of 2-4 sessions, each about one minute in duration, the peak loads corresponding to about 70% of V02max Stair-using activity was independent of age. body weight and V02max at entry. Following 12 weeks of stair-climbing the only statistically significant change was a decrease in Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE) during the stair-climbing lest in the exercise group. After 24 weeks a statistically significant decrease was further observed in RPE. The mean change in predicted V02max + 4·8% in older and +6·3% in less fit subjects was statistically significant in the exercise group compared to control group. An increase in body weight was measured after 12 weeks but there was a decrease compared to the baseline after 24 weeks. The decrease of total skinfold index was greater after 24 weeks compared to 12 weeks stair-climbing. A higher activity level during office hours proved to be feasible for female subjects. There were no reports of medical care being required during increased stair-climbing. It is concluded that stair-climbing can be utilized as an office training programme For middle aged and less fit female subjects, but, for more dramatic changes, more than 13 floors/work day must be climbed. Recommendations for a stair-climbing training programme are given.