How Many Calories Are Burned During Swimming?

Swimming is a great overall exercise. It's easy on the joints and burns a high amount of calories. But different types of swimming burn a different number of calories.

  1. Calories

    • The amount of calories burned during swimming depends on the weight and energy expenditure of the individual. It also depends on how long the activity is performed.

    Laps

    • Freestyle lap swimming is the most common way to swim for exercise. A 130-lb. individual burns 590 calories per hour lap swimming with vigorous effort.

    Backstroke

    • A 155-lb. person burns 563 calories per hour doing the backstroke.

    Butterfly Stroke

    • A 190-lb. person burns 949 calories per hour performing the butterfly.

    Swimming

    • Leisurely swimming would cause a 130-lb. person to burn 354 calories in 1 hour of activity.

    Synchronized Swimming

    • Doing 1 hour of synchronized swimming, a 190-lb. person burns 690 calories.