Let’s face it. Walking isn’t for everyone. Maybe you get bored on long walks. Maybe the weather’s bad. Or maybe you’re just looking for fun ways to burn calories without walking around the block. The good news? You can torch the same number of calories—or even more—doing other workouts that feel way more exciting.
In this guide, you’ll discover 7 fun workouts that burn the same amount of calories as walking, and sometimes even more. Whether you’re into dancing, jumping, or just moving to your favorite music, these options will keep things fresh and get your body working hard.
How Many Calories Does Walking Burn?
First, let’s set a baseline. A brisk walk burns around 250 to 300 calories per hour for someone weighing about 155 pounds. That number can vary depending on pace, incline, and body weight.
So, for each workout below, we’ll compare the average calorie burn to walking and show you why you don’t need to lace up your sneakers for a walk just to meet your fitness goals.
1. Dance Workouts
Who says working out has to feel like work? Dance workouts are one of the most fun ways to burn calories, get your heart rate up, and smile while doing it. Whether it’s Zumba, hip-hop cardio, or freestyle in your living room, dancing can burn 300 to 400 calories per hour.
Why it works:
- Involves full-body movement
- Keeps your heart rate up
- Engages your legs, arms, and core
- Boosts mood and energy
How to start:
- Join a local Zumba class
- Try YouTube dance workouts at home
- Make a playlist and freestyle for 30 minutes
Calories burned: 300–400 per hour
Fun factor: 10/10
2. Jump Rope
Short on time? Pick up a jump rope. Just 10 minutes of jumping rope can burn as many calories as 30 minutes of walking. It’s intense, but super effective for fat burning, stamina, and coordination.
Why it works:
- High-intensity cardio
- Engages calves, quads, shoulders, and core
- Boosts agility and balance
How to start:
- Use an adjustable speed rope
- Start with 30-second intervals, rest, and repeat
- Build up to 10–15 minutes total
Calories burned: 500–700 per hour
Fun factor: 8/10 (and yes, it brings out your inner kid)
3. Hula Hooping
Yes, hula hooping isn’t just for kids. It’s back in a big way and now a legit fitness trend. A 30-minute hoop session can burn up to 200 calories, just like a brisk walk. Plus, it works your core like crazy.
Why it works:
- Targets abs, obliques, hips, and thighs
- Fun, rhythmic movement
- Low impact and easy on joints
How to start:
- Get a weighted fitness hoop
- Play your favorite upbeat songs
- Aim for 20 to 30 minutes of continuous movement
Calories burned: 200–400 per hour
Fun factor: 9/10
4. Rebounding (Mini Trampoline)
Jumping on a mini trampoline might look silly, but it’s serious cardio. Known as rebounding, this low-impact workout is easier on your joints than jogging and burns just as many calories as walking in less time.
Why it works:
- Improves lymphatic flow
- Works legs, glutes, and core
- Fun and energizing with low risk of injury
How to start:
- Use a mini rebounder with a handle for stability
- Do short bursts of jumping, jogging, or side steps
- Try rebounder workout videos to guide you
Calories burned: 250–400 per hour
Fun factor: 8/10
5. Kickboxing or Shadowboxing
Ready to punch and kick your way to fitness? Kickboxing torches fat and sculpts your arms, legs, and core. You don’t even need a punching bag. Shadowboxing alone can help you burn as many calories as walking—if not more.
Why it works:
- High-intensity cardio
- Builds strength and endurance
- Improves coordination and confidence
How to start:
- Join a group class or use a follow-along video
- Warm up with jabs, crosses, hooks, and uppercuts
- Add squats or knee drives for more intensity
Calories burned: 400–600 per hour
Fun factor: 9/10
6. Dance-Based Step Workouts
If you love rhythm but want a little structure, try step aerobics. Think of it as dance combined with strength moves using a raised platform. This retro workout is making a comeback, and it’s a great way to burn calories without walking.
Why it works:
- Constant stepping targets glutes and thighs
- The beat keeps you moving
- Builds cardiovascular strength
How to start:
- Use a step platform or improvise with stairs
- Try a beginner step workout online
- Keep movements big and full-range
Calories burned: 300–500 per hour
Fun factor: 8/10
7. Low-Impact Cardio Circuits
If you want variety, create your own low-impact circuit at home. Combine simple moves like marches, squats, arm swings, side steps, toe taps, and seated jacks into a 20-minute routine. You’ll burn just as many calories as walking, without ever leaving your living room.
Why it works:
- Customizable to your fitness level
- Full-body engagement
- Easy on joints and knees
Sample 20-minute routine:
- 1 min side steps
- 1 min bodyweight squats
- 1 min arm punches
- 1 min butt kicks
- 1 min rest — repeat 4 times
Calories burned: 200–300 per 30 mins
Fun factor: 7/10 (and you can watch TV while doing it)
How to Get Started
You don’t have to do all 7 workouts. Pick one or two that match your mood, space, and energy. Here’s how to build your own weekly plan.
Sample No-Walk Weekly Plan
| Day | Workout |
|---|---|
| Monday | 30 mins Dance Workout |
| Tuesday | 15 mins Jump Rope + Core |
| Wednesday | Rest or Light Stretch |
| Thursday | 20 mins Hula Hoop |
| Friday | 30 mins Kickboxing |
| Saturday | 20 mins Step Workout or Rebounding |
| Sunday | Low-Impact Cardio Circuit (light day) |
This plan keeps things fresh, fun, and full of fat-burning power—without a single step around the block.
Tips to Make It Stick
- Use music you love to make workouts fly by
- Set a timer and focus on effort, not perfection
- Track your progress with a journal or fitness app
- Invite a friend or family member to join
- Keep your workouts fun—this is key to consistency
FAQs About Non-Walking Workouts
Can these really replace walking?
Yes. As long as they get your heart rate up and engage your muscles, these workouts burn similar or more calories than walking. The key is consistency and effort.
What if I’m a beginner?
Start slow. Choose lower-impact options like rebounding, hula hooping, or dance. Keep sessions short and focus on having fun, not being perfect.
Do I need any equipment?
Some workouts need basic gear like a jump rope, mini trampoline, or fitness hoop. But most can be done with bodyweight or items you already have at home.
How often should I work out?
Aim for 3 to 5 days a week, depending on your goals and schedule. Even 20 minutes per session can add up to big results over time.
Will these workouts help me lose weight?
Yes—especially when combined with a balanced diet and good sleep. Any activity that raises your heart rate and burns calories can support fat loss and overall fitness.
Final Thoughts
Walking is great, but it’s not the only way to stay active. Whether you’re short on time, stuck indoors, or just need something new, these 7 fun workouts can replace walking and still help you burn calories, tone muscles, and feel amazing.
The best part? They’re fun, energizing, and make movement feel like something you actually want to do.
So pick your favorite, turn up the music, and get moving—no sidewalk needed.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749x0:751x2)/jazz-jennings-61-11252019-016a1eef92fd463497346168eedef715.jpg?w=150&resize=150,150&ssl=1 "Jazz Jennings Shows Off 100-Pound Weight Loss at Harvard Graduation—And It’s So Inspiring!")
