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Intro: Stair climbing is one of the most effective conditioning tools available. It torches calories, hammers your legs, and builds aerobic power fast.

In this RB100 challenge, you’ll aim to climb 100 floors on a stair machine — either for time or simply to finish. It’s a grind, but one that delivers.


How to Structure the Challenge

Choose Your Mode:

  • StairMaster / VersaClimber
  • Jacobs Ladder
  • Treadmill incline (as a substitute: 10%+ incline walk for time equivalent)

Options:

  • Complete all 100 floors in one session
  • Break into 5 x 20 floor intervals with short rests
  • EMOM (climb 10+ floors every minute)

Log your time and floor pacing.


Why It Works

  • Targets quads, glutes, calves, and lungs
  • Builds uphill strength and climbing endurance
  • Low impact on joints, high output for fitness
  • Great conditioning carryover for hiking, HYROX, and obstacle racing

Tips for Success

  • Keep upright posture — avoid leaning heavily on handles
  • Drive through the heel and use a smooth, rhythmic cadence
  • Use a fan or towel — it gets sweaty, fast

Pair it with:


External Resources:

Richard

Richard Branson is a fitness and wellbeing enthusiast with a passion for HYROX, cycling, and technology. He shares insights at the intersection of performance, wellbeing, and innovation.

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