how many calories burned during yoga

Yoga is often praised for its ability to calm the mind, improve flexibility, and promote overall well-being—but did you know it can also be a powerful tool for burning calories? If you’ve ever asked yourself how many calories burned during yoga, the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The number of calories you burn during a yoga session depends on various factors like the type of yoga, session duration, intensity, and your own body weight. Let’s break it down.

Calories Burned in Different Types of Yoga

Not all yoga classes are created equal. Some are slow and meditative, while others are fast-paced and physically demanding. Here’s how different styles compare in terms of calorie burn (based on a 150-pound person for a 60-minute session):

• Hatha Yoga: ~200–300 calories
  This is a gentle style, focusing on basic poses and slow transitions. Great for beginners, but moderate in calorie expenditure.

• Vinyasa Yoga: ~400–500 calories
  Vinyasa involves continuous flow between poses, increasing heart rate and calorie burn. It's ideal for those looking for a dynamic practice.

• Bikram/Hot Yoga: ~450–600 calories
  Performed in a heated room, this style intensifies sweating and requires endurance. The heat may help burn more calories, but results vary.

• Power Yoga: ~500–700 calories
  A fitness-focused style that’s strength-based and physically demanding. One of the best styles for calorie burning.

• Yin or Restorative Yoga: ~100–150 calories
  These are slow-paced practices with long holds in passive poses. Minimal calorie burn, but excellent for stress reduction and recovery.

Factors That Influence Calorie Burn

The exact number of calories burned during yoga can vary based on:

• Body Weight: Heavier individuals burn more calories during physical activity.

• Effort Level: The more energy and muscle engagement you put into your practice, the more you’ll burn.

• Session Duration: A longer class naturally burns more calories.

• Temperature: Hot yoga or practicing in a warm environment can increase calorie expenditure slightly due to increased heart rate.

Yoga vs. Other Workouts: How Does It Compare?

Compared to cardio workouts like running or HIIT, yoga generally burns fewer calories per hour. However, yoga offers unique benefits—like increased flexibility, stress reduction, and long-term strength—that make it a valuable part of any fitness routine. If weight loss is your goal, combining yoga with other high-intensity exercises may provide the best results.

Is Yoga Enough for Weight Loss?

Yoga alone can contribute to weight loss, especially when paired with mindful eating and a balanced lifestyle. Power and Vinyasa yoga, in particular, can help burn fat, build muscle, and improve metabolic function. But consistency is key—practicing regularly, even just 3–4 times a week, can lead to noticeable changes in body composition over time.

Final Thoughts

So, how many calories burned during yoga? It depends—but now you know that the style of yoga, your weight, and the effort you put in all make a big difference. Whether you're looking to lose weight, stay active, or simply enhance your mental and physical health, yoga can be a powerful tool. Choose the style that matches your goals, stay consistent, and enjoy the journey.