How Many Calories Do You Burn by Singing?

Singing is a form of expressive communication that requires bodily exertion, whether it’s a solo performance or a group choir. While the activity itself may seem passive, it can actually burn a surprising number of calories, hence why studies and health experts have recently highlighted its fat-burning benefits. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics and explore how many calories people can burn just by singing, and how different factors come into play.

Standard Caloric Burn for Singing

According to recent research, a person who weighs 200 pounds (14.3 stone or 90kg) can burn around 140 calories per hour when singing.

The tempo and energy of the song play a significant role in the number of calories burned. For instance, singing a quicker, more lively tune will likely make you move around more, increasing your caloric expenditure. In fact, it’s been found that the tempo of a song can affect a singer’s speed and movement, leading to a higher calorie burn.

Simple Calculation for Caloric Burn

To calculate the amount of calories burned while singing, you can use a simple formula: multiply the number of hours spent singing by 136. This figure comes from the average caloric burn rate based on the size and energy of an individual singer.

Formula: Hours of singing x 136 amount of calories burned singing

Comparison with Other Activities

When considering the caloric burn of singing, it’s helpful to compare it with other low-intensity activities. For example, standing and singing can burn around 140-180 calories per hour, making it similar to gentle walking.

Factors Affecting Caloric Burn

Different factors can influence the number of calories burned when singing, including:

Weight: Heavier individuals may burn more calories simply by moving, including when singing. This is due to the greater amount of muscle and fat they need to engage. Intensity of Singing: The pitch and variation in singing can significantly impact the caloric expenditure. Higher intensity and more energetic singing lead to a higher metabolic rate. Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Movements: While singing primarily uses aerobic movements, such as breathing and posture, it can also involve some anaerobic activities, especially in more active songs. This dual nature can result in a more erratic metabolic rate during singing.

In conclusion, while singing isn’t typically considered a high-intensity workout, it can still contribute to physical activity and calorie burn. Engaging in regular singing sessions can provide a unique way to stay active and burn a meaningful number of calories, enhancing overall fitness and health.

Note: It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your individual health needs.