Photo by Shayla Girardin
At one point or another, we’ve all had to face the Pepperdine stairs. Whether we’re running late for COM 180 or trekking up to Towers, it’s safe to say we’ve all dreaded the countless steps at some point in time.
As annoying as they are, walking up those stairs could actually be doing you a favor. Not only are you breaking a sweat, but you’re also burning calories! Don’t worry, I’m not saying you should only take the stairs. Trust me, I’m the first person to hop on the shuttle if given the chance. What I’m saying is those endless hikes up to the CCB may not be all that bad.
“The stairs can be a pain when you’re in a rush and trying to get to class in time, but overall I think they make for good exercise,” freshman Shannon Hansen said.
Running up the stairs may seem annoying, but it’s actually a great workout opportunity. According to Greatist.com, since you’re lifting your body with each step up, you’ll use more leg muscle on the stairs than running on a flat surface. Plus, stair workouts are easier on your joints. If you’re hoping to lose weight, stair running is a great option. According to Nutristrategy.com, you can expect to burn as many as 1,000 calories in a one-hour stair run. Not only are you getting a great cardio workout, but you’re also building muscle in the process. Taking the stairs will tone both your thighs and glutes and you don’t even half to pay for a gym membership!
Here are the best spots on campus to feel the burn, and some great ways to get a workout in the process.
- The CCB stairs: Need I say more? They may be terrible before an 8:00 a.m. but they’re an ideal workout. Grab a buddy and run them together. If you’re a beginner, consider just walking these for a start or even doing a light jog. More advanced athletes could consider a sprint.
- Lower Dorm Road stairs: While these stairs look like a nightmare, they’re another terrific option. Shake things up by trying some side steps or even lunges. These stairs are fairly steep, so sprinting would be a more challenging option.
- Towers stairs: For those lucky enough to live in Towers, here’s a workout right at your doorstep! Since the stairs are divided, consider breaking up your workout. Sprint up the first set, then lunge up the next and finish off with a jog. You could even try two-foot hops for a great thigh workout. You get the picture! Since these stairs aren’t quite as steep, there’s more room to mix up your workout.
- Dorm stairs: If for some reason the Malibu weather isn’t perfect one morning (God forbid!), you can always use the stairs in your dorm. These are just as good of a workout. Sprint, speed walk, jog — you name it. Just make sure you’re not disturbing anyone living below the stairs. Since you’re indoors, consider using the stairs for mountain climbers or tricep dips to add to your workout.
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Follow Shayla Girardin on Twitter: @shaylagthatsme
