#Stairclimbing

New findings suggest that for Thais aged 60 and above, a daily habit as simple as climbing stairs may boost strength, balance, and heart health more accessibly than costly gym memberships or equipment. While walking and swimming remain popular, stair climbing is gaining attention as an affordable, practical activity that helps older adults stay independent.

Thailand’s population is aging rapidly, with the elderly now making up a significant share of society. This reality makes preserving mobility and preventing falls a urgent public health priority. Beyond walking and swimming clubs, researchers are highlighting stair climbing as a meaningful daily exercise that fits into many Thai lifestyles—from apartment buildings to temple complexes.

For Thais aged 60 and above, powerful new research indicates that one of the most effective ways to boost strength, balance and heart health does not require fancy fitness centers or expensive equipment — it may be as simple as climbing stairs every day. While walking and swimming are classic choices, recent scientific studies highlighted in a widely-read article by Tom’s Guide and supported by global research, are putting stair climbing in the spotlight as a low-cost, accessible exercise that can help older adults stay steady, strong, and independent well into their later years.

Anyone who has rushed up Bangkok stairs or temple steps may have wondered why the ascent takes the wind out of them. New insights from fitness science show that getting winded on stairs is not a sign of poor health or low fitness. Rather, stair-induced breathlessness is a normal response as the body switches from rest to sudden, high-intensity effort.

For Thais working in vertical environments—from bustling transit hubs to multi-story shopping centers and hillside temples—this understanding is especially meaningful. Breathlessness on stairs is common and not something to fear. Recognizing this helps people set realistic health expectations and adopt practical steps to improve.

Millions of people, from office workers in Bangkok’s sky-rise towers to monks ascending temple steps, have wondered: why does even a short climb leave so many of us out of breath? According to new research and fitness science, getting winded walking up stairs is not a sign of poor health—or unique to those out of shape. In fact, exertional intolerance on stairs is a normal physiological response that affects almost everyone, regardless of fitness level, and reflects the body’s transition from rest to sudden, high-intensity activity (CNET).