Am I the only one who is tired of the so-called “research” that purports to support an alternative to exercise? I saw one recently that now claims that a hot bath burns more calories than walking for 30 minutes.* Sometimes I think these reporters must think it is okay to compare apples and oranges. First, the author compares 30 minutes of walking to an hour bath. I don’t know about the reader, but I barely have (i.e., can make) time to exercise for 30 minutes, let alone soak in a hot bath for an hour. Granted, there are benefits to taking a hot bath or sauna, but let’s not quit the gym and “let Calgon take me away”.
A hot bath is reported to burn 130 kilocalories (technically, the article read “130 calories” which is literally next to nothing). For comparison, the “100 kcal rule” states that whether one walks, jogs, or runs one mile he or she burns approximately 100 kcal (for a 70 kg person). So, maybe, if you walk at a 1 mph pace….
Let’s try to remember that exercise follow the principle of specificity. A bath may be relaxing and may increase the metabolism some, but it lacks the benefits of walking—or, better yet, more intense aerobic exercise. It will not improve cardiorespiratory fitness (i.e., VO2max). Don’t be misled! No doubt that a hot bath or sauna are good for you, but don’t skip the gym.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow!
Carpe momento!
*https://theheartysoul.com/burn-calories-reach-fitness-goals-baths/?utm_source=HHL&fbclid=IwAR2mSwmzWjTqBJKXBawMNQE9oPkqLT_PRmdI9Sz9V0gCkhg5PBXimzlE9yM