Running/Running Stairs

I live in a building that is 20+ flights tall and, personally, i enjoy running the stairs rather than outside; especially when it's cold out. Is it more beneficial to run on flat ground? I'm simply looking to stay in shape and maybe burn a few pounds.
Thanks.
 
Running on stairs burns way more calories than just running. Of course, it's more benificial to your health to run on flat ground if you reach the top of the 20 flights and fall down.
 
I think running stairs, hills, or any kind of incline makes it more difficult.I use to do hill sprints when I was training for boxing and not only did they help me get into great shape but my legs and especially calves put on some quality muscle.If I had 20 flights at my disposal, I would definitely take advantage.Must be nice.Put on a weighted pack and haul some ass.
 
Alright, thanks for the info guys. I love to exercise but I'm not too knowledgeable on the details. I find it nice to have 20 flights of stairs at my disposal as its a nice setup to run to the top, and rest the lungs as I run down to the bottom to do it all over again.
 
If you're going to run stairs- run up, not down. The only thing you can accomplish running downstairs is injury.

I've "heard" walking downstairs backwards is a nice hamstring warm up though.

Besides, if you walk downstairs you don't need a rest period, and you're effectively running a HIIT. You don't have to take your time walking, but you're not using your quads and most muscles in your leg going down, so theres no reason to risk injury.
 
running down does have great benefits on your muscles. at least that's what my track coach and high school told us. it works infrequently used muscles that aid in running faster. obviously if you think you're going to fall, don't do it, but if you can there are benefits.
 
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