A study has revealed which sex position burns the most calories.
It’s fairly easy to guess that some positions demand a lot more effort than others.
Some are ideal for a slow, relaxed session, while others can feel like a full-body workout — and may even warrant a quick stretch beforehand to avoid aches or strains.
That difference in intensity matters if you’re curious about energy expenditure, because the style and pace of sex can influence how many calories you burn — something some people may factor into a broader weight-loss plan.
A gentler approach can still raise your heart rate, but the focus here is on the kind of energetic, high-effort sex that leaves you needing a breather afterwards.
With that in mind, online healthcare provider ZAVA compiled estimates for various positions, assuming a “passionate and intense” level of effort across the board.
One key detail: the calorie burn isn’t the same for both people. The partner doing more of the lifting, thrusting, or supporting generally expends more energy.
At the lower end of the scale was spooning. Over 15 minutes, it was estimated at 39.38 calories for the receiving partner, and 63 calories for the giving partner.
The top spot depends on who is taking the more active role.
For women — or more broadly, for whoever is on top — cowgirl recorded the highest burn at 78.75 calories in 15 minutes.
For men, the comparable highest-burn option was a standing position, also estimated at 78.75 calories.
When averaging both partners together, standing came out on top overall: 78.75 calories for men and 59.06 for women, for an average of just under 69 calories.
If that sounds oddly specific, “Yes, really – do the maths yourself if you don’t believe it.”
To be clear, the standing position described here is when one partner remains upright while the other wraps their legs around their waist, with the standing partner supporting them at a comfortable height so everything aligns.
It’s not difficult to see why it’s considered the most physically demanding: it recruits a wide range of muscle groups and requires sustained effort.
Alongside the cardio element present in most positions, it can involve significant engagement of the core and lower back, plus hamstrings and glutes — and plenty of arm strength as well.
In that sense, it can also fit into a bigger picture of improving health and fitness.
Crystal Wyllie is a doctor at ZAVA, and explained: “Consistency is key. Treating these activities as part of a broader approach to fitness can help build a foundation for more structured workouts.
“For those looking to lose weight or become more toned, bedroom activity can be an approachable introduction, which can then be complemented with other low-impact sports or activities such as yoga, pilates, swimming, or brisk walking.
“By combining fun, movement, and variety, it’s possible to improve fitness while also enhancing connection and wellbeing, proving that physical activity doesn’t have to be boring or punishing to be effective.”