Hill vs. Steps

ThirteenTwo · 07-04-2009, 06:23 AM

There is a very steep hill at the buford dam around my way. I'm not certain the exact angle or height other than it is quite steep and large (at least a 4 story building, possibly taller).

My brother and I were arguing the merits of running up the hill vs. stairs of the same length. He thinks it would be more beneficial physically if there were stairs on the hill to run and I disagree.

It got me wondering if there were any benefits to running up a set of stairs as opposed to a simularly angled hill? Is there anything stairs offers over a hill?

pliftkl · 07-04-2009, 08:57 AM

The stairs require more coordination, since you have to actually land your feet on the stairs. That means that you don't pick the stride length - you are stuck with however big the steps are. However, you could argue that the stairs act as a coordination drill as well.

If you were purely interested in cardio benefits, I'd think that the hill would allow you to concentrate on giving maximum physical effort.

paolo27th · 07-04-2009, 09:13 AM

You can go to mapmyrun.com and check how long/steep the hill is.

$ick Money! · 07-04-2009, 09:42 AM

I agree with pliftkl. I also think that both serve a purpose.

Lunch Box · 07-06-2009, 02:22 AM

It maybe because I'm clumsy, but I can't sprint up stairs but I can sprint up a hill fine. I get more of a workout using the hill.

iateyourapple · 07-09-2009, 07:13 PM

ive been wondering this myself. i love running stairs. get out at least twice a week for it. however, ive been unsure if maybe one of those days should be rotated out with some kick ass hill. anyone know?

TheRazorFrazer · 07-10-2009, 03:51 AM

Go with whatever you enjoy the most brother! You'll work harder and get more out of it. I personally prefer hills, because I can concentrate mainly on giving maximum effort without worrying about tripping over.

mikasd · 07-10-2009, 02:41 PM

I think running on a hill is more difficult.