Why Standing Still Feels More Tiring Than Walking

Most people have experienced the feeling of being more tired when standing still than when walking. Actually there's nothing mysterious behind this phenomenon. When standing still, the weight of the human body is entirely supported by the soles of the feet, causing the muscles in the feet to deform under heavy pressure. The resulting decrease in blood flow causes the entire leg to feel heavier, and the soles of the feet become the most tired.

Over time, this can lead to tenderness and fatigue caused by reduced blood supply. As blood circulation slows down, the legs can feel numb. However, when walking, one leg bears the weight while the other leg is in a relaxed state. This allows the muscles to alternate between a state of "walking-relaxation-walking-relaxation", making walking much more comfortable than standing.

Studies have shown that when you walk with hands stationary, the body will consume 12% more energy. And 26% more energy will be consumed if your hands and feet move in the same direction. That explains why walking in a normal posture is the most comfortable.

In conclusion, standing still for extended periods can cause fatigue and discomfort due to the pressure placed on the soles of the feet. Walking, on the other hand, allows the muscles to alternate between states of tension and relaxation, resulting in a more comfortable experience.