Aug 19, 2025

8 Small Habits That Burn More Calories Than You Think

Aanya Mehta

Taking The Stairs

Skipping the elevator for stairs is a mini cardio session. Just 10 minutes of stair climbing can burn up to 100 calories while strengthening your legs.

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Walking While Talking

Pacing during phone calls or meetings adds up. Even a 20 minute casual walk while chatting can burn 70 to 90 calories.

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Fidgeting and Stretching

Tapping your feet, adjusting posture, or stretching regularly keeps your body in micro movement mode, burning more calories throughout the day.

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Cooking At Home

Including chopping veggies, stirring, lifting pots, meal prep isn’t just relaxing, it can torch around 150 calories per hour.

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Cleaning and Housework

Sweeping, mopping, or doing laundry are hidden workouts. One hour of household chores can burn 150 to 200 calories.

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Laughing out Loud

A hearty laugh for 10 to15 minutes boosts heart rate and can burn 40 calories and helps in reduced stress levels.

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Standing More Often

Switching from sitting to standing, especially with a standing desk, can burn 30 to 50 extra calories per hour.

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Dancing While Doing Chores

Put on your favourite playlist and move while cleaning or cooking. Fun, stress busting, and a calorie burning bonus.

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