During sex, the average number of calories burned varies by gender and activity intensity. Research shows that men burn about 101 calories per session, roughly 4.2 calories per minute, while women burn around 69 calories per session, or about 3.1 calories per minute
. The typical sexual encounter lasts about 5 to 6 minutes of intercourse, meaning men might burn around 21 to 25 calories, and women about 19 calories during that time
. Including foreplay and longer sessions can increase total calorie burn. For example, 30 minutes of sexual activity can burn approximately 85 to 100 calories for a person weighing around 155 pounds (70 kg)
. Calorie burn depends on factors such as duration, intensity, sex position (with more active positions like "butter churner," standing, or doggy style burning more calories), and individual differences like body composition and age
. Sex is comparable to light to moderate exercise but burns fewer calories than activities like running or gym workouts
. In summary:
- Average calories burned: 3 to 4 calories per minute
- Men: ~101 calories per average session (~25 minutes in some studies)
- Women: ~69 calories per average session
- 30 minutes of sex: about 85 to 100 calories (varies by intensity and weight)
- More active positions and longer duration increase calorie burn
While sex burns calories, it is generally less intense than traditional workouts but offers additional health benefits such as stress reduction and improved heart health
