It's hot, steamy and gets your heart pounding – but can sex really replace exercise ? The question has certainly triggered a reaction online, with hundreds of Reddit users taking to a thread to debate what 'counts' as a workout. "A workout less than five seconds? Hell nah," one joked, as another chimed in: "Only if you go pro." But what do the experts think? Believe it or not, Kieran Sheridan , a UAE-based physiotherapist, thinks it can.
But you would need to be getting it on quite a lot to see results. "It sort of can, but it would require too much effort and time. You may need to target some muscles," he said.
According to Sheridan, six minutes of sex burns about 21 calories. To transform it into a meaningful routine you would need to be getting down and dirty three or four times a day for half an hour each time – burning between 315 and 420 calories. Is gardening good exercise? Experts weigh in on whether it counts as a workout In the midst of work, social events and day-to-day responsibilities, this is probably a little unrealistic for most.
So, finding a more conventional routine tailored to your body is likely better for you in the long run – even if it sounds a little less appealing. Dr Lawrence Cunningham, a GP at the UK Care Guide , also urged conscious people to think twice before forgoing the gym in favour of a romp. He explained: "To 'count' as a moderate workout, sexual activity would need to be vigorous and sustained, similar to brisk walking or cycling, w.