biking vs running

Biking vs Running: Which Burns More Calories?

When it comes to choosing between running and biking, the debate over which activity burns more calories is a common one. Both activities are great for cardiovascular health and weight loss, but one might be more effective than the other when it comes to burning calories. Let`s dive into the details to determine which activity is the winner in the battle of biking vs running.

The Calories Burned During Biking

According to the American Council on Exercise, a person who weighs 155 pounds can burn approximately 298 calories during a 30-minute moderate-intensity bike ride (12-13.9 mph). If the intensity is increased to a vigorous level (14-15.9 mph), the person can burn up to 372 calories in the same amount of time.

However, the number of calories burned during biking depends on several factors, such as the intensity of the ride, the individual`s weight, and the terrain. Biking on an uphill road or mountain trail will require more effort and result in burning more calories compared to a flat or downhill route. Similarly, a heavier person will burn more calories than a lighter person during the same intensity of the ride.

The Calories Burned During Running

Similar to biking, the number of calories burned while running also depends on various factors. According to the Calorie Control Council, a 155-pound person can burn approximately 334 calories during a 30-minute moderate-intensity run (5 mph), and 372 calories during a vigorous-intensity run (7.5 mph).

With running, the terrain and intensity also play a major role in the number of calories burned. Uphill or cross-country running requires more effort and thus burns more calories, while downhill running is easier and burns fewer calories. Additionally, a person`s weight and speed also determine the calories burned - a heavier person will burn more calories than a lighter person at the same speed and duration of the run.

Biking vs Running: Which Burns More Calories?

Based on the above numbers, it seems that running burns more calories than biking - a 155-pound person burns about 334 calories during a 30-minute run compared to 298 calories burned during a moderate-intensity bike ride. However, it is important to note that the rate of calorie burn for each activity depends on the effort put in by the individual. This means that a person can burn more calories by biking at a vigorous intensity or by running at a faster pace.

Moreover, biking tends to be a low-impact exercise compared to running which has a higher risk of injury. This makes biking a more sustainable activity for individuals with joint problems or those looking for a low-impact workout option. On the other hand, running can increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Another point to consider is that biking is an activity that can be done for longer durations compared to running. This means that even if one burns fewer calories per mile while biking, they can cover a greater distance and consequently burn more calories overall.

The Verdict

Ultimately, the winner in the biking vs running debate depends on the individual`s fitness goals and preferences. Those looking for a high-intensity workout can opt for running, while those seeking a low-impact alternative can go for biking. However, if calorie burn is the main focus, it is important to note that both activities have the potential to burn significant amounts of calories depending on the individual`s effort.

In conclusion, the number of calories burned during biking or running depends on various factors such as intensity, duration, terrain, and the individual`s weight and speed. Both activities offer numerous health benefits and can be highly effective for weight loss when combined with a healthy diet. The key is to choose the activity that is enjoyable, sustainable, and fits into one`s lifestyle for long-term success.