Do You Lose Weight Faster With Yoga or Belly Dancing?

Do You Lose Weight Faster With Yoga or Belly Dancing?
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The rate at which you lose weight depends on several factors, not just the type of exercise you do. Those that lead an active lifestyle, exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet within their caloric needs are more likely to see consistent weight loss results than those that workout sporadically and vigorously, and eat a poor diet. With proper lifestyle choices, you can lose weight from doing either yoga or belly dancing.

Calorie Expenditure

According to HealthStatus.com, in one hour of exercise, a 150-lb. individual can burn 189 calories from Hatha Yoga, 351 calories from Ashtanga Yoga, 477 from Bikram and 594 calories from Bikram.
A 150-lb. individual can burn 306 calories from one hour of belly dancing. In comparison, belly dancing can yield a higher caloric burn than some types of yoga, while more intense forms of yoga yield a higher caloric burn than belly dancing.

Varying Factors

The amount of calories you burn during a period of exercise depends on a number of variables. Body weight, gender, age, intensity level during activity, duration of exercise and current fitness level can each factor into how much energy you burn each time you workout.

Weight Loss

Weight loss depends on balancing the exchange of energy between both diet and activity, regardless of the type of exercise. In order to lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit, which is to expend more energy than you consume. If you burn 351 from an hour of intense yoga and then eat a 400-calorie muffin, you have taken in an extra 50 calories and essentially negated your workout efforts . If you burn 306 calories from an hour of belly dancing and then eat a 100-calorie apple, you have created a 206-calorie deficit, and are more likely to see weight loss results. Long-term lifestyle choices such as a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can result in more effective weight loss and successful weight management.

Considerations

Speak with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program. Your doctor can help you determine types and intensities of exercise that meet your health needs, weight loss goals and physical fitness abilities.

References

Article reviewed by Jessica Lyons Last updated on: Sep 1, 2011

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