Is It True That Men Burn More Calories During Sexual Relations?

Illustration of husband and wife (Photo: Freepik/Freepik)

JAKARTA - Sex does not only play a role in building intimacy, but also provides physical benefits, one of which burns calories. However, interestingly, it turns out that men burn more calories than women during sex.

According to previous studies, men burned about 101 calories on average during sex sessions, while women burned only about 69 calories. This figure shows a significant difference between men and women in terms of energy spending during sexual activities.

Professor Leah Millheiser, a sex expert at Stanford Health, revealed that this is due to the more active roles that men often take when in touch.

"Anyone who takes an active role during sex will burn more calories," Millheiser said, as reported by the New York Post page.

This active role includes more dominant body movement, long duration, and high intensity. In other words, the more physically active a person is in sexual activity, the greater the calories that catch fire.

Emily Morse, a sex expert emphasized that sexual activity varies widely and cannot be equated between individuals.

"There are many variations, of course, between short five-minute relationships and athletic sex which is passionate for hours. Sex is different for everyone, every time," he said.

In addition to duration and intensity, the position also affects the number of calories burned. In a study by sex toy company Lelo, it was stated that positions such as Standing and The Butter Churner were some of the most effective positions in burning calories. However, scientific data on calories based on positions are still minimal.

Dr. Jason Krp, a sports physiological and author, estimates that a person can burn about 3 to 4 calories per minute during sex.

"If the goal is to increase endurance in the bedroom, try various positions to create variations," suggested Jaimee Bell, sex expert and producer of Bloom Stories.

Although intimate relationships can burn calories, experts emphasize that sex is not a substitute for sports such as running, cycling, or weight training.

"Sex, in terms of calorie burning, is equivalent to walking two to four miles. Usually, the duration is shorter than the time in the fitness center," explained Dr. Krp.

However, that does not mean that sex has no health value. Apart from the effects of light fitness, sex also provides psychological and emotional benefits.

"Sex helps us connect with our own bodies," said Jaimee Bell.

"Sex is one of the main pillars of personal fitness, just like getting enough sleep and a healthy diet." added Emily Morse.