How many calories does cycling burn per hour?

Cycling burns 400-1000 calories per hour depending on intensity and weight. At moderate pace (12-14 mph), a 155 lb person burns about 560 calories/hour. Vigorous cycling (14-16 mph) burns 700+ calories/hour.

Is cycling better than running for weight loss?

Both are effective. Running burns more calories per minute but cycling is lower impact, allowing longer workouts. A 45-minute run and 60-minute bike ride burn similar calories. Choose based on joint health and enjoyment—consistency matters most.

Does a stationary bike burn as many calories as outdoor cycling?

Stationary cycling burns slightly fewer calories at the same perceived effort due to no wind resistance or terrain. However, interval training on a stationary bike can match or exceed outdoor cycling calorie burn.

How far should I cycle to burn 500 calories?

A 155 lb person burns about 500 calories cycling 13-15 miles at moderate pace (12-14 mph). At a leisurely pace, you'd need to ride 20+ miles. Faster cyclists cover more distance but burn similar calories per hour.

Does cycling build leg muscle?

Cycling primarily builds endurance in legs rather than significant muscle mass. For muscle building, combine cycling with strength training. Hill climbing and high-resistance stationary cycling do build more muscle than flat riding.

All Exercises

cardio

Calories Burned Cycling

Cycling is a low-impact cardio exercise that burns significant calories while being easy on joints. Whether you're riding outdoors or on a stationary bike, cycling improves cardiovascular fitness and burns 400-800+ calories per hour depending on intensity.

~281 calories

per 30 min at 155 lbs

Calorie Calculator

Your Weight (lbs)

Duration (minutes)

Intensity

You will burn approximately

281 calories

Cycling for 30 minutes at 155 lbs

Calories Burned by Body Weight

Calories burned per 30 minutes of cycling at moderate intensity (MET 8)

Body Weight	Calories Burned
120 lbs (54 kg)	218 cal
140 lbs (64 kg)	254 cal
155 lbs (70 kg)Reference	281 cal
170 lbs (77 kg)	308 cal
185 lbs (84 kg)	336 cal
200 lbs (91 kg)	363 cal
220 lbs (100 kg)	399 cal