Loy, S. F., Holland, G. J., Mutton, D. L., Snow, J., Vincent, W. J., Hoffmann, J. J., & Shaw, S. (1994). Effects of stair-climbing vs run training on treadmill and track running performance. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 25(11), 1275-1278.

Active college women (N = 23) completed nine weeks of training (four days per week for 30 min progressing to 45 min). Two groups, one performing running, the other running and stair-climbing, were formed. The run group improved VO2max by 16% and run time by 11%. The stair group improved VO2max by 12% and the run time by 8%. These differences were not significant. It was suggested that stair-climbing exercise is an alternative mode to running for training. This supports the concept of cross-training.

Implication. Although cross-training was supported it is reasonable to assert that the subjects were not highly trained athletes and that they fell into the category of individual that will improve in the measured factors by any form of physical training. Cross-training is supported as a fitness activity but not as an activity for highly trained or very serious athletes.

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