Check Your Heart Health Without Smart Devices

Do you think you're in pretty good shape but don't use a Fitbit or other smart devices to keep track of your health?

Well now you don't need a smart device to give you that vital information you need for your health according to researchers with the European Society of Cardiology.

According to a study experts say all you need is a stopwatch and a few flights of stairs. That's pretty easy to find for almost anyone. The study reveals the time it takes you to climb four flights of stairs can reveal your overall heart health and risk for coronary artery disease.

The study author Dr. Jesus Peteiro, a cardiologist says:

"The stairs test is an easy way to check your heart health, If it takes you more than one-and a half minutes to go up four flights of stairs, your health is suboptimal, and it would be a good idea to consult a doctor."

According to the study, participants first walked or ran on a treadmill. After resting for 15 to 20 minutes, the group then climbed up four flights of stairs which equals to about 60 stairs without stopping and without running.

Patients who took between 40 and 45 seconds to go up the stairs averaged between nine and 10 METs during the exercise test. Researchers measured the results in metabolic equivalents (METs), which reveals a link to mortality rate.

The study does say that reaching 10 METs during exercise has a connection to low mortality rates which is a very good thing.

On the other hand, patients who took 90 seconds to make it up the stairs averaged under eight METs. This translates to a mortality rate of two to four percent each year, or 30 percent over 10 years.

Certainly good information if you are getting older or if you are just concerned about your heart health. CLICK HERE to read more about this study.