Do isometric exercises burn many calories?
The short answer is no, isometric exercises generally do not burn a lot of calories compared to dynamic (moving) workouts like running, rowing or swimming!
Why Not?
No Movement: Calorie burn is closely tied to how much your body moves and how much oxygen it demands. Static holds, by definition, lack this continuous motion.
Lower Heart Rate: While challenging, isometrics typically don't elevate your heart rate to the same sustained high levels as cardio.
Shorter Workout Duration: Isometric holds are often performed for relatively short periods (e.g., 20-60 seconds), leading to less overall energy expenditure compared to longer cardio or dynamic strength sessions.
So, Are They Useless? Absolutely Not!
Even with lower calorie burn, isometric exercises are incredibly valuable for:
Building Strength: Which improves everything else you do.
Improving Stability: Great for joints and your core.
Low Impact: Gentle on joints, making them safe for beginners or those with pain.
Injury Prevention & Rehab: Used widely in physical therapy.
Muscle Definition: Building muscle helps boost your metabolism long-term.
The Takeaway
Don't rely on isometrics for huge calorie burn. Instead, use them to build foundational strength, stability, and complement your overall fitness routine for a stronger and more resilient body.