Sex is a part of human life that is natural and enjoyable, not only bringing pleasures and closeness but also health benefits. Sex comes next in the frequently asked questions, related to the number of calories one burns during this activity. With growing concern towards fitness and health, this becomes one of the most interesting answers to know the overall calories burned during Sexual Intercourse. This paper will discuss the many factors that play a role in the amount of calories being burned while having sex and try to provide some kind of a rough estimate on the average calorie burn.
The number of calories burned during sex varies from person to person and depends on several factors such as age, weight, duration, and intensity of the activity. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the average person burns about 3.6 calories per minute while engaging in sexual activity. This number may seem low, but it is important to note that sex is not a continuous activity and involves periods of rest and low-intensity movements. Therefore, the total number of calories burned during sex can vary greatly depending on the individual and the specifics of the sexual encounter.
The duration and intensity of the sexual activity play a crucial role in determining the number of calories burned. Longer and more vigorous sexual encounters are likely to result in a higher calorie burn. For example, a 30-minute session of vigorous sex can burn up to 144 calories, while the same duration of light or moderate sexual activity may only burn about 72 calories. This is because vigorous sex involves more intense movements and requires more energy expenditure from the body.
Age and weight are also important factors that influence the number of calories burned during sex. Younger individuals tend to have a higher metabolic rate, which means they burn more calories during any physical activity, including sex. Additionally, a person’s weight can also affect the number of calories burned during sex. Heavier individuals tend to burn more calories during any physical activity as their bodies require more energy to move.
Another factor that can impact the number of calories burned during sex is the position chosen. Different sexual positions require varying levels of physical exertion, and as a result, can result in different calorie burns.
The Missionary Position: A Low-Intensity Exercise
The missionary position is a common sexual position in which the man is on top of the woman. While this position is often praised for its intimacy and connection, it is not typically considered a high-intensity exercise. Studies have shown that the missionary position tends to burn fewer calories compared to other, more physically demanding sexual positions. For instance, one study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that men burned an average of 101 calories during 30 minutes of sexual activity, while women burned an average of 69 calories during the same time frame. Furthermore, the researchers found that the missionary position was associated with the lowest energy expenditure, burning an average of 47.6 calories for men and 39.2 calories for women.
More Physically Demanding Positions: The Cowgirl and Reverse Cowgirl
In contrast to the missionary position, the cowgirl and reverse cowgirl positions are more physically demanding sexual positions that can result in a higher number of calories burned during sexual activity. In the cowgirl position, the woman is on top of the man, controlling the rhythm and pace of the sexual activity. In the reverse cowgirl position, the woman is also on top, but facing away from the man. Both of these positions require the woman to use her core, leg, and arm muscles to maintain balance and control, resulting in a higher energy expenditure compared to the missionary position.
One study published in the journal Sexual Medicine found that women burned significantly more calories during sexual activity when engaging in the cowgirl or reverse cowgirl positions compared to the missionary position. Specifically, the researchers found that women burned an average of 69.1 calories during 30 minutes of sexual activity in the missionary position, compared to an average of 71.5 calories during the same time frame in the cowgirl position and an average of 74.8 calories in the reverse cowgirl position. While these differences may seem small, they can add up over time, contributing to a more substantial calorie expenditure during sexual activity.
Aside from the physical health benefits, sex also has a positive impact on mental health. It can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem. These benefits can also indirectly contribute to weight loss and calorie burn. When a person is less stressed and in a better mood, they are more likely to engage in physical activities and make healthier food choices, which can lead to weight loss.
It is also worth mentioning that the number of calories burned during sex is not the only factor to consider when it comes to overall health and fitness. A healthy and balanced diet, along with regular exercise, is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being.
Exactly how many calories someone is burning off during sexual activity varies greatly from person to person and depends on so many different variables: age, weight, time, and intensity of this practice. Although sex certainly isn’t a hard-hitting form of calorie-burning exercise, it does have great advantages to health and results in both physical and mental well-being. There is, hence, the importance of a balanced, healthy lifestyle that includes exercise regularly and a healthy diet in general.
