Add Laughter to Your Exercise Routine

A 2006 study published in the International Journal of Obesity found that genuine voiced laughter causes a 10–20% increase in energy expenditure and heart rate above resting values (1). The study’s results also state that 10–15 minutes of laughter could increase energy expenditure by 10–40 calories daily. 

While this won’t replace calories burned in a gym or a quick run, it can complement your wellness routine. The added bonuses of increased endurance and upped heart rate also support your general activities. Plus, staving off a few more calories isn’t a bad deal. 

What if You Find It Hard to Laugh?

Life can throw us into tough spots where laughter seems to have gone on vacation. Many factors can lead to this laughter drought, such as stress, anxiety, or a refined sense of humor. But, given the great benefits of laughter, it may help to sometimes fake it. 

According to an article published in 2023 on HelpGuide by experts Lawrence Robinson, Melinda Smith, M.A., and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., simulated laughter can be just as beneficial (2). Incorporating bouts of simulated laughter can improve mental health and aerobic endurance, particularly in older adults. Meanwhile, hearing others laugh, even for no apparent reason, can often trigger genuine laughter. 

You can add simulated laughter to your life through activities like laughter yoga or laughter therapy groups. You can also start your laughter journey by indulging in funny memes online, sharing hilarious jokes, or even cracking up at your uncle’s not-so-funny jokes. The initial chuckles can pave the way for genuine, spontaneous laughter that’s good for your health and nourishing for your soul.

The Reason Jokes Give Us Pleasure

There’s a scientific reason why we fall for the funny person. In a 2012 podcast for Utrecht University, Dr. Madelijn Strick explains that when you joke or laugh about a joke, it activates the prefrontal cortex in your brain (3). 

It’s the part of your brain that helps you connect pieces of information, such as the punchline of a joke. As you process the joke, the “reward area” is activated. The same brain area also becomes active when you enjoy pleasures like delicious chocolate. 

Activating reward centers in the brain bolsters confidence, upping your charm and ability to build connections. Why not use the science to your advantage?

References

1. Buchowski, M., Majchrzak, K., Blomquist, K. et al. “Energy expenditure of genuine laughter.” International Journal of Obesity, May 2, 2006. | https://www.nature.com/articles/0803353
2. Lawrence Robinson, Melinda Smith, M.A., and Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. “Laughter is the Best Medicine.” HelpGuide.Org, June 2023. | https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm
3. Dr. Madelijn Strick. “Why does humour make someone so incredibly attractive?” Utrecht University, October 12, 2021. | https://www.uu.nl/en/news/why-does-humour-make-someone-so-incredibly-attractive