Does Watching Football Burn Calories?

Football games are not just about touchdowns and team spirit; they're also a fantastic opportunity to engage in activities that boost your health and fitness. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or someone seeking new ways to stay active, attending a game can help you burn calories and enhance your well-being. Let's explore how cheering on your favorite team can be a fun and effective workout.  

The positive impact on your health
It may be surprising to hear that attending a football game involves light to moderate physical activity, which can help you burn a few hundred calories without consciously "working out." Regular physical activity during the game can help with maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. You can help to boost your cardiovascular fitness, and possibly make your heart stronger and more efficient. Furthermore, physical movement helps increase serotonin, reducing stress and improving your mood.    
Get moving at the game
Football games offer plenty of opportunities for physical activity. Here’s how you can make the most out of your game day:  

1. Walking from the parking lot  

• Calories burned: The walk from your parking spot to the arena can be a great warm-up. Depending on the distance, you can burn between 50 to 150 calories during this walk alone.  

• Health benefits: This activity increases your heart rate and helps lower blood pressure. 
  
  

2. Tackling the stairs  

• Calories burned: Climbing stairs is an excellent way to boost cardiovascular health. You can burn about 10 calories per minute while climbing up the stairs.  

• Health benefits: It strengthens your leg muscles and improves overall endurance. 
   
  

3. Jumping and cheering when your team is winning  

• Calories burned: The excitement of the game can have you jumping and cheering, burning approximately 50 calories or more, depending on how actively you participate.  

• Health benefits: This simple joy enhances heart rate and gives a quick energy boost.  
  
  

Healthy options around the Superdome 

• Caesars Superdome is making it easier than ever for fans to nourish their bodies during the game! Ochsner Eat Fit has teamed up with the Superdome to offer a variety of Eat Fit-approved dishes throughout the Dome! Look for the Eat Fit seal on options like: Strawberry Pecan Salad, Chicken Caesar Wrap, and Southwest Vegetarian Salad. 
  

Turning game day into a calorie-burning session doesn’t require much effort. Simply make conscious choices like parking further away or opting to take the stairs over the escalator. Encourage your friends and family to join in on the fun, transforming a regular outing into a healthy adventure.  

Next time you head to the stadium, remember that you’re not just supporting your team—you’re also supporting your health goals. Enjoy the game and keep moving!