Is it possible to burn 500 calories a day? Yes, it is! Weight loss has a simple rule. Fewer calories in, more calories out. However, just reducing calorie consumption does not always work (1). That’s why burning 500 calories per day and eating a balanced diet are recommended. This way, women and men can lose up to 6 kg (13 pounds) and 8 kg (17.6 pounds), respectively (2).
Science says you need to burn 3500 calories to lose one pound of fat (3). Creating a negative calorie balance aids faster weight loss (4). But what’s the best way to burn 500 calories a day? Here are the 12 best fat-burning exercises you can do for 30 minutes a day to expend 500 calories. Read on!
12 Best Exercises To Burn 500 Calories In 30 Minutes
1. HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)
HIIT or high-intensity interval training is the best form of anaerobic exercise (does not use oxygen but fat as fuel) to burn 500 calories in a short time (5).
In HIIT, quick and high-intensity exercise sets are repeated for a short time to burn fat more effectively than regular cardio exercises. HIIT also creates EPOC (post-exercise oxygen consumption), which means that you will burn fat even after 2 hours of doing the exercises.
An example of HIIT is doing 12 squat jumps at a high intensity, taking 10 seconds rest, and repeating two more sets. Take 10 seconds rest and do 20 high knees at high intensity. Again, rest for 10 seconds and repeat two more sets. Here are the best HIIT exercises you can do.
2. Zumba/Dancing
Zumba or dancing is a workout that is perfect for people who want to have fun while losing weight. With only 1-2 minutes break during the session, you can burn somewhere between 400-500 calories, depending on your weight and intensity. Exercising with other people who are on the same journey will also boost your confidence and keep you on track.