5 Exercises That Burn the Most Calories

Everyone is aware of how great exercise is – not only for your body, but also your mind. And with social media full of new workout routines claiming to burn hundreds of calories through one movement, it’s certainly difficult to keep track. Read on as we look at five exercises that burn the most calories…

Sprinting

Probably the most obvious. Sprinting is one of the highest calorie burning exercises, with a 30-minute session burning up to 465 calories. Although being able to sprint for 30 minutes straight would be great – it is highly unlikely that anyone is able to do so. Instead, sprinting can be incorporated into a work out through intervals. This works by sprinting for anywhere between 20-60 seconds, then following with a 10-20 second rest.

HIIT

High Intensity Interval Training works by physically pushing yourself as far as possible for 20 seconds, then resting for ten before repeating it again. If repeated over a 30-minute period, the average person can burn up to 450 calories. Sprinting (as mentioned above) can be used in this format as well as controlled weight lifting and body weight exercises such as squats and burpees.

Jump rope

Jump rope, or skipping, can also burn an almighty amount of calories – up to 401 every 30 minutes. Jump rope offers benefits for overall balance, muscles and also coordination. Boxers are seen doing it not only because it gets their heart pumping, but it also connects their muscles to their brain, making sure they are timing it correctly so that the rope is passing under their feet.

Swimming

30 minutes of vigorous swimming allows up to 340 calories to be burnt. Engaging every muscle in the body, swimming allows for a full-body workout. Butterfly is the stroke that burns the most calories, with backstroke and breaststroke following close behind.

Rowing machines

Similar to swimming, the rowing machine offers a full body work out. Half an hour on the rowing machine will burnt 273 calories. The low impact cardio is great for those who are wanting to start slow, yet still see an effect on their fitness. Whether you’re using the rowing machine as your warm up or cool down, it is bound to get the heart working.

You do you

It’s important to note, however, that the number of calories burnt by each individual really does depend on their metabolism and weight. The above calories are presumed from an individual around 150lbs – and what works for you might not work for someone else.

Exercise is one of many ways people can engage with scientific research. The article ‘Wide Eyed with Wonder: University of Nottingham Open their Doors to the Community’ looks at the different ways the public are becoming engaged in the world of science.