Statue of Shirley Strickland outside the Melbourne Cricket Ground. (Photo credit: Melburnian)
Swinging our arms while running not only helps balance forces that would otherwise cause us to wobble, it also saves energy, according to a new study.
By measuring rates of oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production, researchers have shown that swinging your arms while running decreases the net metabolic power demand. Running with hands held behind your back increases the net metabolic power demand by 3%, while holding them across your chest increases it by 9%, and holding them on top of your head increases it by 13%.
Previous studies had demonstrated the mechanical benefits of swinging your arms while running, but the energy benefits were an unresolved question until now.
Original research paper published in the Journal of Experimental Biology on July 16, 2014.
Names and affiliations of selected authors
