(UPI) - Fitness experts say climbing up stairs -- and going down them too -- have multiple health benefits such as improved balance and strength.

Representatives at Life Fitness -- a company in Schiller Park, Ill., that manufacturers exercise equipment such as treadmills say incorporating stairs in a fitness regime will use muscles standard floor exercises don't. Studies, they say, show not only improved balance and strength and improved cholesterol levels in the blood, but longer life. People who climb more than 55 flights of stairs every week live longer, they say.

Among their recommendations for those contemplating adding stair-climbing to their fitness regime, Life Fitness experts suggest:

-- Taking the stairs two at a time, focusing on pushing up with the back of the legs to work the hamstrings rather than pulling with the legs while climbing.

-- Walking down stairs or even downhill has been proven to improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels. However, remember to be careful because it's easier to trip on the way down.

-- Stair climbing workouts do add extra pressure to the knees and joints so pay attention to any hip, knee or ankle pain. Be sure to use the handrails for extra balance.

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