If the idea of lacing up for a run or squeezing into a crowded gym makes you break out in hives, here’s a fun alternative: try juggling. Yes, really.
According to a recent feature in The New York Post, juggling is more than just a party trick… it’s surprisingly good for your brain and body. Multiple studies are now pointing to real cognitive and physical benefits, even if you’re just juggling two balls (which, let’s be honest, is most of us).
Researchers say the act of juggling can improve hand-eye coordination, reaction time, posture, and even balance. One neuroscientist explained that it actually “changes how quickly you react to objects, how well you coordinate between two hands, and how you keep your posture under control.” Translation: you might not become a circus performer, but you will sharpen your reflexes.
And it’s not just a brain booster. Juggling counts as light physical activity. Apparently it can burn up to 280 calories an hour, about the same as a brisk walk. So yes, you can technically burn off that latte while throwing things at yourself in the living room.
What’s even more encouraging is that it doesn’t require Cirque du Soleil-level talent to see results. A 2022 study followed a group of seniors learning to juggle and found that every single one of them eventually managed to juggle three balls. It took practice, but no one was left out.
Aside from being a decent workout and a brain booster, juggling is low-impact, cheap, and can be done indoors (read: no weather excuses). Plus, it might even give you a cool party trick.
So if you’re over burpees and done pretending yoga is “relaxing,” grab a couple of tennis balls and start dropping them. Just remember: if you’re not chasing at least one ball under the couch, you’re not doing it right.
