Softball games typically include periods of rest or inactivity interspersed with brief bursts of running or exertion. Though a softball game does not require the same uninterrupted stamina as running in a race or playing a singles tennis match, it does provide a source of aerobic exercise.
Type
Aerobic exercise should get your heart rate up and increase the rate of your breathing. Even relatively light activities such as pushing a lawn mower or walking briskly qualify as moderate aerobic exercise, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Softball provides moderate-intensity rather than vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise. There may be short bursts of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise when players run the bases or run to field a ball.
Calories Burned
One hour of playing softball burns about the same number of calories as an hour of low-impact aerobics and more calories than an hour of water aerobics or brisk walking, according to MayoClinic.com. An hour of softball can burn 365 calories for a 160-lb. person, 455 calories for a 200-lb. person or 545 calories for a 240-lb. person. The number of calories you burn will depend on your weight, the duration of the game and your position.
Considerations
Some positions in softball may provide higher intensity, higher calorie-burning exercise than others. Players who must touch the ball in each play, such as the pitcher and the catcher, expend more energy than other fielders. Softball players in high-level competition may work harder and burn more calories than lower-level players.
Benefits
Softball provides a fun source of moderate aerobic exercise for people of all ages. Adding regular aerobic exercise to your weekly routine can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and some cancers and even improve your mood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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