Obesity is a serious health problem that affects millions of people around the world. It increases the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancer. The main reasons for rising obesity rates include inactive lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, and not getting enough exercise.
One surprising way to fight obesity is by shaking your legs while sitting. Many people do this fidgeting habit without even realising it. While it’s often seen as bad behaviour, experts say that leg shaking can actually help you burn calories without needing extra time for exercise.
Leg Shaking Benefits For Obesity
Dr Shivani Nesargi, Medical Doctor, Sanjeevini Hospital, Raichur, explained the surprising benefits of leg shaking for people dealing with obesity. Here are the main benefits of leg fidgeting.
- Regulates Glucose Levels: Leg shaking helps control blood sugar levels after meals, which is important for managing diabetes.
- Lowers Insulin Levels: Shaking your legs regularly can reduce insulin levels, lowering the risk of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes.
- Boosts Energy Use: Moving your legs increases the calories you burn throughout the day, helping with weight management.
- Improves Blood Oxygen Levels: This activity raises oxygen levels in your blood, contributing to better overall health.
- Engages Key Muscles: Leg shaking works the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles in your lower legs. These muscles are made of slow-twitch fibres that don’t tire easily, allowing you to shake for a long time.
- Burns Extra Calories: If you shake your legs for 7 to 12 hours a day, you can burn between 524 to 726 kilojoules (about 125 to 175 calories) more.
Dr. Nesargi adds that this technique is especially useful for those who sit for long periods at desks. It's a simple way to add movement to your day and can be done anywhere, anytime. By making leg shaking a habit, you can take an active step toward better weight management and improved health.
Can Leg Shaking Help With Managing Stress and Anxiety?
According to a study published on PubMed, leg shaking can help manage stress and anxiety. When people feel anxious, their bodies react by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prepare us for a fight-or-flight response. Here are some key ways that leg shaking can help with stress and anxiety:
- Releases Tension: Shaking your legs can help relax your muscles, which reduces some of the physical signs of anxiety.
- Distraction from Stress: Leg shaking can take your mind off anxious thoughts, giving you a quick break from stress.
- Increases Blood Flow: Moving your legs improves blood circulation, helping you feel more awake and less tired.
- Self-Soothing: Many people shake their legs to calm themselves during stressful times. It’s a way to release nervous energy without drawing attention.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Combining leg shaking with mindfulness practices, like deep breathing, can help you relax even more and lower your anxiety levels.
Conclusion
Research and expert opinions suggest that leg shaking is more than just a nervous habit; it can actually be beneficial for your health. Leg shaking helps you burn more calories and improves your metabolism, making it a useful tool in fighting obesity and enhancing overall well-being. As health programs look for new ways to encourage physical activity, promoting simple actions like leg shaking could play an important role in addressing obesity.