Weight loss can be a task! With so many diets and exercises out there, it can be difficult to keep track of what works best for you. One of the most common and effective exercises people do to keep their weight in check is burpees. But what about jumping jacks? That also involves moving your hands as you jump a lot, just burpees without the push-ups and extra tiredness! If you are wondering if jumping jacks can serve the same purpose or not, let’s compare them neck-to-neck – jumping jacks vs burpees!

What are burpees?

Burpees are a full-body callisthenics exercise (one that uses your body for resistance) that focuses on your upper and lower body strength and endurance. It also helps strengthen your legs, hips, buttocks, tummy, arms, chest, and shoulders. They are usually a part of a high-intensity training (HIIT) regimen. In fact, studies have shown that these types of exercises help burn body fat in an effective way.

What are jumping jacks?

A part of plyometrics or jump training, jumping jacks are also a total-body workout that combines the goodness of exercise and resistance work. It majorly works on your glutes, quadriceps, hip flexors, abdominal and shoulder muscles – so some major muscle groups. It helps raise your heart rate and helps you keep yourself fit.

Performing jumping jacks not only helps you lose weight, but also helps you keep your blood pressure in check, reduce cholesterol levels, and reduce insulin sensitivity.

Burpees vs jumping jack

Now we know what each of these exercises entails, it’s time for the million-dollar question – which one is better for weight loss? To know this, HealthShots reached out to Health coach and fitness trainer Digvijay Singh.

As per the fitness coach, jumping jacks and burpees are two cardiovascular exercises that can intensify any workout. They are both regarded as training exercises as they call for quick bursts of strength. “However, when it comes to weight loss due to the number of muscles utilized, burpees are harder than jumping jacks. Jumping jacks just demand your leg muscles to support you, whereas burpees require both your arms and your legs to keep you in plank position. Burpees burn more calories and improve overall body conditioning.”

Also Read: Weight loss tips: Incorporate these 5-minute exercises in your busy schedule

So, burpees are certainly more effective and for the right reasons. Sharing why the fast and sturdy won this weight race, Digijay lists down some reasons. He shares that it is one of the best HIIT workout routines for weight loss. It is one of the bodyweight workouts that increase muscle mass while burning fat. To sum it all up, burpees are:

• A full-body workout that targets a number of muscles and strengthens the heart.
• Maybe strenuous, but one that will help you lose weight.
• Makes you more nimble and energized that will last you the full day.
• Enhances coordination and improves balance.

So, burpees can be your best friend on your weight loss journey. You can even rev it up by trying new modifications. However, this doesn’t make jumping jacks the bad guy here! While burpees can be more effective, jumping jacks can be beneficial for weight loss nonetheless.