Staying Fit Tips? Walk like Monty Python's Ministry of Silly Walks, Obviously!

We all know that walking can help us stay fit. But some researchers took the time to investigate something entirely new. They discovered that walking in a silly or inefficient manner, like John Cleese in Monty Python's 'Ministry of Silly Walks,' to be precise, can burn more energy and boost mood. It just goes to show that everyday activities don't have to become boring to remain effective.

With a playful energy, a woman walks, embodying the joy of movement and demonstrating that fun and fitness can coexist (Pexels, Rodnae Productions).

It's official: Walking in the absurd style of John Cleese's character from Monty Python's Ministry of Silly Walks can help us stay fit. A study in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) suggests that "inefficient walking," when done safely, can enhance physical health and emotional well-being. This "Teabag Style" walking is beneficial if there are no gait disorders and if one can adapt gradually.

Staying Fit Low-Efficiency Style

In the US laboratory based study, researchers quantified the benefits of inefficient walking by having participants walk normally and then imitate the silly walking styles of Mr. Teabag and Mr. Putey from Monty Python's Ministry of Silly Walks. They found that these ridiculously funny and 'low-efficiency' walking styles, when performed safely, significantly increase energy expenditure compared to normal walking, offering notable benefits.

It was found that inefficient walking, like the Teabag style, can serve as high-intensity aerobic exercise, potentially inducing a "runner’s high." This phenomenon motivates regular physical activity, suggesting health benefits and aiding weight loss.

Having Fun

But there were even more perks to the fun side of it. We all know laughing is good for us, and people were seen smiling and bursting into laughter while doing the Teabag walk. It's tough to walk like that without cracking up, the researchers concluded, and they wrote: "Any joy derived from inefficient walking would further promote its uptake."

In fact, they concluded: "Had an initiative to promote inefficient movement been adopted in the early 1970s, we might now be living among a healthier society. Efforts to promote higher energy—and perhaps more joyful—walking should ensure inclusivity and inefficiency for all."

"Had an initiative to promote inefficient movement been adopted in the early 1970s, we might now be living among a healthier society."