Sit-ups burns about 140 kcal in 30 minutes for a 70 kg (154 lb) person.
Sit-ups burns about 140 kcal in 30 minutes for a 70 kg (154 lb) person.
Calories burned by Sit-ups are computed using the ACSM formula: kcal = (MET × 3.5 × body weight kg ÷ 200) × minutes. The MET for Sit-ups is 3.8. MET stands for Metabolic Equivalent — 1 MET equals resting metabolism (sitting still).
Heavier people burn more calories doing the same activity because more mass must be moved. The calculator above updates in real time as you change the weight.
kcal doing Sit-ups · 70 kg = highlighted
| Body weight | Weight (lb) | kcal |
|---|---|---|
| 50 kg | 110 lb | 100 kcal |
| 60 kg | 132 lb | 120 kcal |
| 70 kg | 154 lb | 140 kcal |
| 80 kg | 176 lb | 160 kcal |
| 90 kg | 198 lb | 180 kcal |
| 100 kg | 220 lb | 200 kcal |
kcal · Sit-ups · 70 kg
kcal in 30 min · 70 kg · Sit-ups = highlighted
The MET for Sit-ups (approx. 3.8) describes a moderate intensity. At higher pace or effort the MET increases — and so does calorie burn per minute. The reverse applies at lower intensity.
Heart rate monitors and smartwatches measure intensity indirectly and can estimate calories more precisely than the average MET — especially if you know your VO₂max.
All values use the MET approach from the Compendium of Physical Activities (Ainsworth et al. 2011) and the ACSM formula. Figures are gross calories (including resting metabolism) — individual variation due to fitness level, technique, temperature, and metabolic efficiency can be ±20–30%.
For more precise measurements, heart-rate-based devices or lab testing (indirect calorimetry) are recommended.
Sit-ups can support weight loss when total calorie expenditure exceeds intake. A deficit of 7,700 kcal corresponds to approximately 1 kg of body fat. Regular Sit-ups sessions can build this deficit — especially when you enjoy the activity enough to stick with it long-term.
At a body weight of 70 kg (154 lb), Sit-ups burns about 140 kcal in 30 minutes.
In one hour of Sit-ups a 70 kg (154 lb) person burns about 280 kcal.
Yes, significantly. A 90 kg person burns about 180 kcal in 30 minutes of Sit-ups — more than the 140 kcal for a 70 kg person. Heavier bodies do more mechanical work for the same activity.
Sit-ups can support weight loss when you maintain a calorie deficit. The key is that total calorie expenditure (resting metabolism + activity) exceeds calorie intake. Sit-ups works best when you enjoy it enough to do it consistently.
The estimate uses the MET value from the Compendium of Physical Activities (Ainsworth et al. 2011) and the ACSM formula. Individual variation due to fitness level, technique, and conditions can be ±20–30%.
The MET value determines exercise intensity. Sit-ups has a MET of about 3.8. For comparison: walking (MET 3.5), running (MET 9.8), jump rope (MET 11.8). The higher the MET, the more calories per minute.
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