But for us mere mortals who don't train six hours a day, that sort of diet would land us at the tailor's with a request to let out all the seams of our pants.
The good news is you don't have to take your workout to extremes to reap the benefits of an active life. You can still perform some of the same sports and games and burn off a respectable number of calories -- maybe not enough to reverse a cheesecake bender but enough to lose a pound a week if you made it a habit.
Here are some of the top calorie-torching activities you, too, can do. After all, what's more important, a gold medal or being able to fit into your summer capris? I think you know the answer.
The following calories counts are from the American College of Sports Medicine for a 150-lb woman exercising for 60 minutes:
Calories burned: 500
This refers to stationary rowing, no lake required. With or without water, you'll develop killer back muscles (hello, backless swimsuit), toned shoulders and biceps. Legs also get into the action through the push-pull.
Calories burned: 500 for
singles/approx. 400 for doubles
Start playing because of the cute outfits, stay for the calorie burn and the fun. It's worth taking a few lessons from a pro to avoid injuries like tennis elbow.
Calories burned: up to 600
At 600 calories, mountain biking is hardly a hard sell. Join a biking club to learn proper technique and safety. Many groups meet on weekends and after work, and can take the place of cocktail hour if you're really motivated. Get ready to sweat.
Calories burned: 286
You'll likely need some coaching if you think vaulting and doing somersaults mid-air is the way to go. Secondarily, calisthenics class burns just as many, if not more, calories and can be found at most fitness clubs.
Calories burned: 500 to 700
Since not staying afloat isn't an option, kicking, doing laps -- whatever it takes to keep you on top of that liquid playing field is going to take some calorie-burning. No wonder Michael Phelps has to eat up 10,000 calories a day.
The opinions expressed in this article are of the author and the author alone. They do not reflect the opinions of SheKnows, LLC or any of its affiliates and they have not been reviewed by an expert in a related field or any member of the SheKnows editorial staff for accuracy, balance or objectivity. Content and other information presented on the Site are not a substitute for professional advice, counseling, diagnosis, or treatment. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical or mental health advice from your physician or other qualified health provider because of something you have read on SheKnows. SheKnows does not endorse any specific product, service or treatment.
Rihanna whacks grabby fan with...
Cold pasta salad with asparagus,...
When you don’t have as many children...
How will we learn of the birth of the...
Kim Kardashian's first words since...
5 Reasons to buy Cher's new album...
