Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Climbing Mount Raddison

Thanks to the recent blizzard, my employer put me up for two nights in a nearby hotel, along with most of the rest of the slaves, err, staff. Unlike most people, who spent their nights with Captain Morgan, I wanted to keep exercising. So I ventured to the 'fitness room' in the basement. I rode for a bit more than 4 miles on a 20 year old 'stationary' bike that rocked as I rode it. Then a half-mile on an elliptical in the "hill" setting. Finally, rather than take the elevator to my room, I decided to run - okay, fast walk - the 14 flights of steps. By the time I reached my room, I felt like my heart was literally beating out of my chest. In fact I could feel it beat by putting my hand on my chest. I laid down for a few minutes to recover.

Two questions:

Am I that out of shape?

Was I risking a catastrophe by doing this? I don't normally push myself hard when riding or exercising, but I seem to be doing just that in 2010. I don't normally feel my heart pump when I put my hand on my chest.

Two answers:

Out of shape? No. When you think about it that was actually a great work out especially if you were moving up the steps faster than usual. There is a reason why stair running is a popular exercise, it's intense!

Catastrophe? Not unless you were also dizzy. I'd say you probably got your heart rate up higher than you are used to. If it went back to normal in a reasonable amount of time and you have no lasting pains then you're alright.

Two answers:

Out of shape? No. When you think about it that was actually a great work out especially if you were moving up the steps faster than usual. There is a reason why stair running is a popular exercise, it's intense!

Catastrophe? Not unless you were also dizzy. I'd say you probably got your heart rate up higher than you are used to. If it went back to normal in a reasonable amount of time and you have no lasting pains then you're alright.

No dizziness. Ditziness is another matter, of course.

By the time I reached the 13th floor, I wasn't running so much. :(

14 flights of stairs is hard work no matter what shape you're in

Two answers:

Out of shape? No. When you think about it that was actually a great work out especially if you were moving up the steps faster than usual. There is a reason why stair running is a popular exercise, it's intense!

Catastrophe? Not unless you were also dizzy. I'd say you probably got your heart rate up higher than you are used to. If it went back to normal in a reasonable amount of time and you have no lasting pains then you're alright.

If your heart is pounding and there is dizzyness and a sudden urge to sit and puke your guts out ..........

That happens to me when I over-exert myself, it usually passes after a few minutes tho

Would you have even tried that before? No, not out of shape, just see if you can do it faster next time.:)

Did you ever see Ghostbusters?
"Alright, when we get to twenty, tell me. I'm gonna throw up."

Climbing stairs is difficult for everyone - that is why it is the stereotypical punishment exercise of american high school sports movies. If you are concerned for your health - see a doctor.

If you are merely more tired than you are accustomed - maybe incorporate more stairs into your regular regime?

Cycling is excellent exercise but it is not really a 'weight bearing' exercise - the activities where you are supporting your own weight are the clinchers.

BTW - sounds like fun stuff.


Edit - did you see the Madmen episode with stair climbing and smoke breaks?

Climbing stairs is difficult for everyone - that is why it is the stereotypical punishment exercise of american high school sports movies.



And perhaps the most famous sports movie of all. Have we forgotten Stallone running up the Art Museum steps?

Did you ever see Ghostbusters?
"Alright, when we get to twenty, tell me. I'm gonna throw up."

Yes, but I thought of Rocky instead of Bill Murray.

And perhaps the most famous sports movie of all. Have we forgotten Stallone running up the Art Museum steps?

No, but I was trying to forget that movie.