How Many Calories Do You Burn Shoveling Snow?

Shoveling snow is a common winter chore that many people dread. Not only is it physically demanding, but it also can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. However, one benefit of shoveling snow is that it can be a great way to burn calories and get some exercise. But how many calories can you actually burn by shoveling snow?

Calories burned during physical activity depend on a variety of factors, such as your weight, the intensity of the activity, and the duration of the activity. According to the American Council on Exercise, a 150-pound person can burn approximately 400 calories per hour by shoveling snow. This number increases to around 500 calories per hour for a 200-pound person.

It’s important to note that these numbers are estimates and may vary depending on the individual’s fitness level, the type of shovel used, and the amount of snow that needs to be shoveled. For example, if you are using a heavy, metal shovel, you will burn more calories than if you are using a lightweight, plastic shovel. Additionally, if you are shoveling a large amount of heavy, wet snow, you will burn more calories than if you are shoveling a small amount of light, powdery snow.

Another way to estimate the number of calories burned while shoveling snow is to use the Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) method. The MET method uses a value of 4.0 for shoveling snow, which represents the energy expenditure required for the activity. To calculate the number of calories burned, the MET value is multiplied by the person’s weight in kilograms and the duration of the activity in hours. For example, a 150-pound person who shovels snow for 30 minutes would burn approximately 240 calories (4.0 x 68.04 x 0.5).

It’s important to note that the number of calories burned while shoveling snow can also vary depending on the type of shoveling that is being done. For example, using a small hand shovel to clear a small area will burn fewer calories than using a large snow plow to clear a large driveway. Additionally, the type of snow can also affect the number of calories burned. Wet, heavy snow will require more energy to move than dry, powdery snow.

The intensity of the activity also plays a role in the number of calories burned. If you are shoveling snow at a moderate pace, you will burn more calories than if you are shoveling snow at a slow pace. Additionally, if you are doing additional exercises such as lunges or squats while shoveling snow, you will burn even more calories.

It’s also important to keep in mind that shoveling snow can be a dangerous activity, especially if proper safety precautions are not taken. It is essential to warm up before shoveling snow, to wear appropriate clothing, and to take frequent breaks to avoid injury.

In conclusion, shoveling snow can be a great way to burn calories and get some exercise during the winter months. However, the number of calories burned will depend on a variety of factors, such as your weight, the intensity of the activity, and the duration of the activity. A 150-pound person can burn approximately 400 calories per hour by shoveling snow, while a 200-pound person can burn around 500 calories per hour. Remember to always take the necessary safety precautions when shoveling snow, and to listen to your body to avoid injury.