We all know some of the quickest ways to burn calories include running, cycling and cross training. However, if you want to mix it up and have a little fun while getting your burn on, consider a pickup game or any other type of competitive activity.
Below are what I’ve found to be the most calorie burning sports based on website data from MyFitnessPal, HealthStatus, NutritionData.Self and ProHealth.
Of course all this data is an estimate and completely depends on not only your effort, but your gender, height, weight and age. I decided to take data input from the average male (according to the most recent Gallup poll, weighing 191 pounds), age 30, who works out for 45 minutes.
Take a glance and plan accordingly!
Related: Best Athletic Sports Watches For 2014-15
Josh Helmuth is the editor of CraveOnline Sports.
Photo Credit: Getty
8 Sports That Burn Calories
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Basketball
Depending on whether you play full or half court, playing a pickup game will burn anywhere from 518-720 calories. Just don't sprain your ankle! (speaking for myself on this one).
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Dodgeball
Remember that game from recess? It was much easier as a kid. Go ahead and get a group together and give it a whirl. You'll be out of breath in no time if the game is done right. Dodgeball will burn nearly 300 calories if you play for up to 45 minutes. SOURCE: LiveStrong
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Golf
Who has time to play golf anymore? Well, evidently those who like to stay fit. Just walking the links can help you burn an insane amount of calories IF you carry your clubs and IF you're not chugging beers between each hole. Take the four-plus hours to shoot 18 holes and you'll burn 1,700 - 2,300 calories.
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Racquetball
If you've seen anyone play at all, you know racquetball can be insane. Just 45 minutes of this high-cardio sport will burn you 650-750 calories.
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Soccer
Of course you're going to burn a ton of calories. You're just running around the entire time! Opt out of playing goalie and expect to burn 650-750 cals.
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Swimming
Ah, swimming -- the full body workout. Easy on the joints and a great cardio burn all at the same time. Most call it the perfect exercise. If you're comfortable in the water, and depending on your effort, just 45 minutes of freestyle will burn you 400-750 calories.
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Tennis
Of course you need to find someone to play with. How about this nice looking beaut?... Okay, focus -- if you're competitive and can handle the agility, tennis can burn 395-455 calories in a 45 minute match.
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Ultimate Frisbee
Like football but don't want the concussions or blown out knees? Ultimate frisbee is an absolute blast. Plus, the cardio burns about 300-580 calories.
