Workouts That Burn Calories

If you’re looking for workouts that burn the most calories in the least amount of time, think high-intensity and rapid pace cardio workouts. Below are some of the easiest (and most challenging!) workouts for burning the most calories possible. Note that the estimated calories burned will vary. It depends on how much you weigh currently, and the level of intensity you achieve with each activity.

Be sure to consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program, and with each of the workouts below be sure to include an adequate amount of time for warming up and cooling down:

Running/Sprinting

Running and alternately sprinting at a rapid pace is one of the best calorie-burning workouts, burning 400-500 calories in just 30 minutes.  The downside of running and sprinting is that you may need to work your way up the physical fitness level necessary to do it, which can take time.  The likelihood of injury is higher too; many participants suffer injuries like pulled muscles, shin splints, and sore knee and hip joints. 

See: Seven Tips to Choose a Running Program

Jogging

Jogging is less intense than running and sprinting, but can still burn up to 300 calories in 30 minutes.  To maximize the calorie burn, you can jog in a hilly area, or include a 2 to 3 minute sprint every so often.  The good thing about jogging is that it can be started gradually by starting with a brisk walk and breaking into a jog for a few minutes, then slowing back down to a brisk walk, and so on.

Cycling

Whether you use a stationary bicycle or ride outdoors, cycling can burn up to 500 calories in 30 minutes - especially the more intense “spinning” workouts you can do in a health club or by following along with a DVD at home.  Cycling is low-impact and has relatively little risk for injuries, and it doesn’t usually stress the joints like running can.

Aerobics

There are plenty of aerobic workouts that burn a lot of calories.  Some are more like choreographed dance routines, and some require additional equipment like a medicine ball, dumbbells, pull-up bars, and steps.  Step aerobics is done at a fast pace and involves stepping up, down, and around a stationary step on the floor, and is one of the best calorie-burning aerobic workouts.

See:  3 Things to Consider Before Buying a Workout DVD

No matter which workouts you perform to burn calories, remember that getting your heart rate up and improving your physical fitness level are most important.  If you do that consistently while also eating a balanced diet, you can’t help but shed pounds and feel great.

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