If you’ve been wondering how many calories are burnt during sex, then you’re not alone. In fact, 2,000 of us are asking Google the same question every month. And ladies, we know what you’re thinking, you’re burning up a sweat during sex, so it must be similar to a workout… right?
There’s been a few studies conducted on the topic, but none give you an idea of the whole picture. For example, in this 2013 study, scientists asked 21 heterosexual couples to wear fitness trackers to bed to try and answer this question. They found that on average, men burn around 100 calories and women burn approximately 69.
The problem is, what is an average sex session? It completely varies from couple to couple, depending on so many factors from duration to positions, to gender, fitness level, health conditions, genetics, and of course, the numbers might have been different if the study included some same-sex couples.
Don’t forget, though, that sex is there for pleasure and counting calories is probably going to steal some of that enjoyment away. However, if you’d like to know for scientific purposes, we’ve got the data for you!
So, is sex a good workout?
Essentially, anything that burns calories can be considered a good workout, although there are many caveats when it comes to sex. Primarily, as we’ve just discussed, it’s all based on averages. The average duration of sex will vary from couple to couple, but sex is typically estimated to last 5-7 minutes.
It’s unlikely that sex will burn as many calories as other forms of exercise, such as swimming or cycling; this is due to the shorter period and that your heart rate doesn’t increase as much as other forms of exercise.
Also Read: Here’s how to fight off junk food cravings
However, sex does also have other health benefits. It can help you feel more energetic, motivated, and close to your partner. Plus, sex releases dopamine in our brain, a neurotransmitter that activates the ‘pleasure centre’, and we can get a surge in prolactin, helping us to regulate our sleep cycles.
Although sex can burn calories, you mustn’t rely on just sex as your primary exercise.
How many calories does sex burn for women vs men?
As we mentioned previously, the 2013 research suggests that men would burn more calories during a sex session than women; however, with so many factors, it’s difficult to say which gender would burn more.
Obviously, the person doing the most movement during sex will burn the most calories, so different positions will also play a part in calories burnt.
Also Read: Here’s how positive affirmations can support your weight loss goals
For example, if a man and woman perform the reverse cowgirl, the man would burn next to nothing if he is horizontal. The woman, being on top, would be probably moving more and therefore burning more calories.
Sex vs a 30-minute run?
Just like exercise burns a different number of calories based on your health, genetics, age, gender, etc., it’s the same for sex. The average 30-minute run can burn 200-500 calories.
The butter churner sex position would probably be the most calorie burning, burning around 211 calories per 30 minutes of sex. However, there is a big emphasis on can – as we’ve mentioned, there are many factors involved.
Sex vs a 30-minute walk?
Walking burns fewer calories than running, but you could still burn around 100-200 calories by walking for 30-minutes. In comparison, 30 minutes of sex in the doggy style position could burn just over 180 calories.
Sex vs a 30-minute weightlifting session?
If you’d rather burn your calories during sex than weightlifting, then performing sex standing up could be a good alternative as 15 minutes of sex standing up could burn around 99 calories.
Sex vs a 30-minute yoga session?
If you’re looking for an alternative to yoga, then 20-minutes of sex in the eagle position is a solid substitute for 30-minutes of yoga, and you could burn around 120 calories.
How can you increase the number of calories burnt during sex?
It’s probably clear by now, but two things can influence the calories burnt during sex the most: your choice of positions and how long you have sex.
For many, sex could be an enjoyable alternative to the gym and exercising, plus there are the added benefits of chemicals being released that help you relax, de-stress, and get a good night’s sleep – all things that will improve your overall health.
Also Read: Does a vegan diet help weight loss?
However, performing sex and calorie counting could add a whole level of pressure to something that is supposed to be enjoyable and connect you. Take it back to basics, get creative (safely) and enjoy sex for its sole purpose, and you’ll ironically probably find you burn more calories too!
What else?
Ok, so sex might not be your new alternative to exercise, but have you considered how Zotrim could support your healthy living goals?
Our 100% natural formula allows you to maximize your weight loss! As well as reducing your appetite and curbing those urges to snack – our powerful ingredients tell your body to burn more calories!
