The word "taking ups" may seem a little confusing in terms of spelling. However, it's actually a combination of two separate words. "Taking" is spelled /ˈteɪ.kɪŋ/ and refers to the act of taking something. "Ups" is spelled /ʌps/ and means the higher part of something or the process of increasing. When combined, the phrase means the act of increasing or taking something to a higher level. So, even though the spelling may seem odd, it's simply a matter of combining two words.