For those looking to shed pounds, incorporating stair-climbing into your exercise routine could be an effective strategy. Whether it's making a habit of climbing a few flights daily or engaging in more intensive stair workouts, this activity offers notable benefits.“Stair-climbing gets you fit faster and burns more calories,” says Lauri van Houten, vice president of the International Skyrunning Federation, which oversees various vertical climbing disciplines, including mountain running and the Stairclimbing World Championships.While competitive events are designed for elite athletes, the focus here is on integrating stair-climbing into everyday life, making it accessible for individuals of all ages. A common question among those considering this form of exercise is, “How many calories will I burn?” Van Houten explains that calorie expenditure depends largely on body weight, meaning that heavier individuals will burn more calories during the activity.Research indicates that stair-climbing can burn approximately 20 times more calories than walking on flat ground. Even descending stairs can be beneficial, as it burns around five times more calories than walking on level surfaces, due to the muscle engagement required to control the descent.Factors That Influence Weight LossThe rate at which you lose weight can depend on several biological and lifestyle factors. Let’s explore some of these key variables.1. AgeAs we grow older, our bodies undergo inevitable changes. One of the most significant is a shift in body composition—many of us gain fat and lose muscle mass as we age. This change influences our resting metabolic rate (RMR), the number of calories we burn at rest. Research published by the American College of Sports Medicine indicates that adults over 70 may have an RMR up to 25% lower than younger adults. This makes it harder to lose weight as we age, even with consistent diet and exercise.2. GeneticsGenetics play a crucial role in how easily we lose or gain weight. Some individuals inherit a fast metabolism, while others may have a genetic predisposition for slower metabolic rates. Research shows that specific genes impact our appetite, metabolism, and fat storage, making it more difficult for some people to lose weight. While we can’t control our genetic makeup, being mindful of these factors can help tailor a more realistic approach to weight loss.3. SexBiological differences between males and females also affect weight loss. On average, women tend to have a higher percentage of body fat compared to men. This difference means women generally have a lower RMR, burning around 10% fewer calories than men of the same height and weight. As a result, it can be more challenging for women to lose weight at the same rate as men.4. Starting WeightYour starting weight also plays a pivotal role in determining how quickly you may see results. People with more body fat typically experience faster weight loss in the beginning, especially when they create a calorie deficit through diet and exercise. For instance, a 200-pound individual will likely experience more rapid initial weight loss than someone who weighs 150 pounds, simply because the calorie deficit required to lose weight is more significant for the heavier person.