While we are well aware of the mental and physical benefits of regular exercise – from sleeping better to boosting energy and increasing our strength and flexibility –, sometimes mustering the motivation to get out the door for that morning run is all too hard, which is why recent studies undertaken by Dr Steven Faulkner at Loughborough University spiked our interest.
He’s uncovered an enticing alternative to burning calories that doesn’t require a treadmill. Or much movement at all, in fact.
The study analysed the effects of ‘passive heating’ on the body, which means raising the body temperature by an average of one degree Celsius. The results of this study (prepare yourself for the good news) concluded that a hot bath effectively burns as many calories as going for a half an hour walk. Dr Faulkner explained to academic news site, The Conversation, how taking a 40-degree Celsius bath for an hour period burns around 140 calories: the equivalent of half an hour of low impact exercise.
Other benefits of repeated ‘passive heating’ included a reduction in inflammation and blood pressure, which are symptoms most often associated with long-term diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
If anyone needs us tonight, we’ll be in the bath tub!
This article originally appeared on Beauty Crew.
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