Most people don’t think of singing as exercise, but it actually requires energy and muscle engagement. Every note you sing activates your diaphragm, lungs, and core muscles. This activity leads to measurable calories burned, even if you are simply rehearsing at home or singing in a choir.
Singing as a Physical Activity
Unlike casual talking, singing demands controlled breathing, posture, and projection. When you sing, your diaphragm contracts, your lungs expand, and your abdominal muscles stabilize your breath. Over time, this effort translates into energy expenditure. Researchers have measured that regular singing sessions lead to significant calories burned, especially when performed standing up or combined with stage movement.
How Many Calories Can You Burn by Singing?
The number depends on how you sing and for how long. Sitting and humming lightly may only use around 80 calories per hour, while standing rehearsals can reach 150 calories per hour. If you are performing with passion, movement, and projection, you might burn 200 or more. These numbers may not compete with running or cycling, but the consistent calories burned during daily singing practice makes it an excellent complement to other forms of exercise.
Benefits Beyond Calorie Burning
The connection between singing and health goes far beyond fitness. Singing improves breathing control, lowers stress, and boosts posture. It also strengthens the diaphragm and core, which contributes to stamina and energy. With reduced stress levels and mindful breathing, many singers also report better weight management. Even if the calories burned are modest, the overall wellness benefits make singing a powerful lifestyle habit.
Tips to Maximize Health Gains While Singing
If you want to get the most from your singing sessions:
Sing standing up to keep your diaphragm active.
Add simple movement, like swaying or stepping, to increase calories burned.
Practice daily for at least 20–30 minutes.
Warm up your voice and body before each session.
Combine singing with light exercise such as stretching or walking.
Conclusion
So, how many calories does singing really burn? The answer varies, but it usually ranges from 100 to 200 per hour depending on your intensity and style. While it won’t replace a gym workout, singing is a fun and sustainable way to stay active. More importantly, it helps reduce stress, improves breathing, and provides steady calories burned as part of your daily routine. Singing, in short, keeps your body and mind in harmony.
