Is Sex Really a Workout?

We all know that sex is a great way to work up a sweat...while having some fun *wink wink*. But is it really a good workout? A recent study undertaken by the University of Quebec in Canada looked at how much energy was used during sex, compared to running on a treadmill for 30 minutes. 21 couples aged 18-35 took part in the testing and they all wore armbands to measure their energy expenditure and metabolic changes during both activities. The results were: The women in the study burned an average of 7.1 calories per minute while running (213 calories per half hour), and 3.1 calories per minute while *ahem* doing the deed (93 calories per half hour). The men burned an average of 9.2 calories per minute while running on the treadmill (276 calories per half hour), and 4.2 calories per minute during sex (126 calories per half hour). Not bad for just having some fun with your significant other!

So, is sex really a workout?

The author of the study study concluded that the "energy expenditure during sexual activity appears to be approximately 85 kCal or 3.6 kCal/min and seems to be performed at a moderate intensity (5.8 METS) in young healthy men and women. These results suggest that sexual activity may potentially be considered, at times, as a significant exercise." Unsurprisingly, both men and women in the study reported that sexual activity was "highly enjoyable and more appreciated than the 30 min exercise session on the treadmill." The energy expenditure from sexual activity was significantly higher in men compared to women, but the study found that sexual activity appears to impact the mental, physical and social health, as well as the quality of life of the individual. So, although it may not be as good as a HIIT workout, with the energy amount expelled during sex being equivalent to a brisk walk, it is definitely worth adding to your existing exercise regime...if it's not already part of it! You get to be close to your significant other, while burning calories and having fun...what more could you want from a workout?   Sources: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0079342 http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/sex-workout http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/sex-a-beneficial-and-more-enjoyable-calorie-burning-exercise-9043560.html