When it comes to burning calories, most of us think about running, hitting the gym, or even swimming. But have you ever considered the calorie-burning potential of sex?
Beyond its many emotional and physical benefits, sexual activity can also contribute to your daily energy expenditure.
Let’s dive into the science and explore how sex stacks up as a calorie-burning activity.
How Many Calories Do You Burn During Sex?
The number of calories burned during sex varies depending on factors like intensity, duration, and individual characteristics such as weight and age.
According to a study published in PLoS One, men burn an average of 101 calories during 25 minutes of sexual activity, while women burn around 69 calories.
This is roughly equivalent to a light walk or yoga session.
Factors That Influence Calorie Burn
- Duration: Longer sessions naturally burn more calories.
- Intensity: More vigorous activity results in higher energy expenditure.
- Body Weight: Heavier individuals tend to burn more calories during the same activity.
- Position: Some sexual positions may require more effort and therefore burn more calories.
Comparing Sex to Other Activities
While sex does burn calories, it’s not as energy-intensive as activities like running or swimming. For example:
- A 30-minute jog burns approximately 300–400 calories.
- An hour of swimming can burn up to 700 calories.
That said, the unique combination of physical, emotional, and mental engagement during sex offers benefits that go beyond calorie burn.
Health Benefits of Sexual Activity
Sex isn’t just about pleasure; it also offers several health benefits:
- Cardiovascular Health: Regular sexual activity may improve heart health by increasing heart rate and circulation.
- Stress Relief: The release of endorphins during sex can reduce stress and improve mood.
- Better Sleep: Post-coital relaxation often leads to deeper, more restful sleep.
- Strengthened Immune System: Studies suggest that people who engage in regular sexual activity may have stronger immune systems.
Making Sex a More Active Workout
If you’re curious about maximizing calorie burn during sex, here are a few tips:
- Change Positions: Trying different positions can engage more muscle groups.
- Increase Duration: Extending your session naturally increases energy expenditure.
- Focus on Movement: Incorporate more active motions, such as thrusting or grinding, to boost intensity.
- Add Playfulness: Use the time to dance, massage, or engage in foreplay to add extra movement.
Calorie Burn in Context
It’s essential to remember that while sex can contribute to your daily calorie burn, it’s not a substitute for regular physical activity.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week for optimal health.
The Bigger Picture: Emotional and Relational Benefits
Beyond physical benefits, sex plays a vital role in emotional and relational health.
It strengthens intimacy, boosts self-esteem, and fosters a deeper connection with your partner.
These psychological advantages can have a ripple effect on overall well-being.
Conclusion
Sex is a fun and meaningful way to burn calories, but its value goes far beyond the numbers on a fitness tracker.
Whether it’s improving your mood, enhancing your relationship, or contributing to better heart health, sexual activity deserves its place in a holistic approach to wellness.
So, next time you’re thinking about your workout plan, remember that intimacy isn’t just good for your heart metaphorically—it’s good for it physically, too.
