Exercise-related leg shakiness can vary from mild to extreme. Because it can make it difficult to perform even simple tasks such as walking and standing, it is important to understand why leg shakiness can occur after working out and how you can treat it.
Causes
Your legs can tremble following a workout as a normal reaction to strengthening your muscles. The shaking occurs as the muscles grab and release each other as they shorten and lengthen. It can be more evident if you are new to exercise or perform exercises and movements that your muscles are not accustomed to. A strenuous workout can also deplete the glycogen in the body and cause the body to use protein and fat as an energy source, which can trigger shaking and fatigue. In addition, intense exercise releases lactic acid and other metabolic byproducts, which can cause shakiness after exercise. Some conditions such as stress, anxiety, low blood sugar, fatigue, multiple sclerosis and a postural tremor can also trigger shaking legs.
Treatments
Decrease the intensity of your workout until your muscles become stronger. Rest for 48 hours between working the same muscle groups. For example, do a leg workout one day and an upper body routine the next day. Consume a carbohydrate-rich food such as a peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread before and after your workout to help replenish energy. Practice relaxation techniques such as stretching and deep breathing after exercise. A doctor can prescribe a medication or therapy for leg shakiness related to illnesses such as Parkinson's disease.
Considerations
According to Real Solutions Magazine, caffeine can help delay fatigue because it releases free-fatty acids into the blood, helping the body to burn fat instead of carbohydrates. It also stimulates the nervous system. However, if your body can't handle the jittery and nervous sensations that occur with caffeine, you can try a supplement such as Ginkgo biloba or tyrosine, which can help improve mental alertness and delay mental fatigue.
Warnings
Do not ignore leg shakiness. Left untreated, it can worsen over time. Contact a doctor if your leg shakiness is chronic, severe, interferes with daily activity, tends to worsen when you stop exercising, is accompanied by weakness, head pain, abnormal tongue motion or muscle contractions. These could be symptoms of a more serious medical condition such as a stroke or brain tumor.
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