If you’re reading this article, you’re probably wondering whether masturbating burns any calories. And the answer to that question is yes, masturbating does burn calories, but does it burn enough to make a real difference?
If you’d like to find out the answer to that question, keep reading as in this article, we’re going to cover:
- What factors influence calorie burn during masturbation
- Whether masturbation can be a useful part of a fitness or weight loss routine
- The role masturbation plays in your overall health
But before we get into any of the above, we’d first like to answer one of the most popular questions – how many calories does masturbating burn?
How Many Calories Are Burned During Masturbation?
The exact number of calories burned during masturbation varies based on several factors, which we’re going to get into in the next section.
However, on average, a session can burn around 5 to 6 calories per minute. For comparison, a short walk or light stretching burns similar amounts of calories. While this is not a significant calorie burn, every little bit adds up, especially over time.
What Factors Influence Calorie Burn During Masturbation?
There are a number of factors that can influence the number of calories you’re going to burn during masturbation. Some of such factors include:
Duration of Masturbation
The longer your session is, the higher number of calories you’re going to burn. What this means is that a quick session will expend fewer calories compared to one that is more prolonged, especially if it’s more intense.
Intensity and Movements
The number of calories you’re going to burn will increase with more vigorous or dynamic movements. To give you an example, a laid-back approach will burn fewer calories than one involving more energy and motion.
For example, the calories you’ll burn before and after using a dick pump will likely be minimal, as the device does most of the work for you.
On the other hand, activities that require more physical effort, such as different manual techniques or changing positions can slightly increase the number of calories that you burn.
Body Composition and Weight
Individuals with higher body weight or more muscle mass tend to burn more calories during any physical activity, including masturbation. This is mainly due to the energy required to move their body.
Is Masturbation a Useful Part of a Fitness or Weight Loss Routine?
While masturbation burns calories, it’s not a practical or effective method for achieving your fitness or weight loss goals. Traditional forms of exercise such as jogging, swimming, or weight training are far more impactful.
Masturbation and Fitness Goals
Incorporating masturbation into your life does not negatively impact fitness goals. Instead, it may help manage stress, improve mood, and support better sleep, all of which will indirectly benefit your overall fitness and well-being.
Does Masturbation Have Any Other Health Benefits?
Masturbation offers several health benefits beyond calorie burn. It can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and even relieve minor pain through the release of endorphins. These benefits contribute to better mental and physical health, creating a positive ripple effect on other aspects of your life.
Masturbation and Its Role in Your Overall Health

Masturbation is a lot more than just a physical activity that’s done out of boredom, to relax, or for pleasure. Its role extends to mental, sexual, and physical well-being. Here are a couple of different ways masturbation can positively impact your overall health and well-being.
Mental and Emotional Health Benefits
Masturbation triggers the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, which are known to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. So, in a way, masturbation can be a form of self-care that will greatly improve your mood and emotional stability.
Sexual Health and Masturbation
Masturbation is a safe and effective way to explore your body, understand your preferences, and boost your sexual confidence.
One great example that masturbation can help with is practicing until you reach the state of gooning or where prolonged and intense focus on pleasure can lead to heightened sensations. If you need the phrase or the act of gooning explained in more detail, feel free to read our article on the topic for further insight.
Physical Health Considerations
Physically, masturbation may improve pelvic floor strength, promote blood flow, and support a healthy reproductive system. But remember, when it comes to masturbation, moderation is key to ensuring it doesn’t lead to irritation or interfere with daily life and responsibilities.
Final Thoughts
While masturbation does burn calories, it’s not a replacement for traditional forms of exercise, such as running, swimming, or hitting the gym. However, the activity’s mental and emotional benefits make it a valuable part of a healthy lifestyle.
By incorporating self-care and understanding the role of masturbation in your overall well-being, you can approach masturbation as a positive addition to your routine rather than just a source of pleasure.