Calories burned basketball
Basketball is interval cardio in disguise — sprints, jumps, defensive shuffles. Pickup games average 600-700 kcal/hour for most adults.
Light
347
kcal/hr
Moderate
501
kcal/hr
Vigorous
694
kcal/hr
For a 170 lb adult.
Calculator
MET-based formula. Adjust weight and duration.
Calories burned
501 kcal
170 lb · 60 min · moderate
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What it is
Full-court basketball — pickup, league, or competitive. Half-court is lower intensity.
What changes the burn
- Game pace and aggressiveness
- Position played (guards run more than centers)
FAQ
Is basketball good for weight loss?
Yes — combines cardio bursts with full-body movement. Sustainable because the game distracts from the effort.
How calories burned is calculated
kcal = MET × kg × h
Basketball · MET 6.5 · ≈ 501 kcal/hr · 77 kg · moderate
Compendium of Physical Activities