Hot baths may rival walking for burning calories and heart health

A Simple Procedure Lowers Blood Sugar and Benefits the Heart

Taking a hot bath may offer health benefits comparable to a 30-minute walk, positively affecting blood sugar levels and blood pressure, according to a report by YourTango.

In an experiment led by Dr. Steve Faulkner of Britain's Loughborough University, 14 men underwent two tests: an hour of cycling and an hour-long soak in a 38°C (100°F) bath. In both cases, researchers aimed to raise participants' core body temperature by about one degree.

Unsurprisingly, cycling burned more calories. However, an hour in the hot bath burned roughly 140 calories—about the same as a 30-minute brisk walk for the average person.

Scientists also monitored the men's blood sugar levels for 24 hours after each session. They found that post-meal glucose spikes were about 10% lower on the bath day compared to the cycling day.

Researchers attribute this effect to passive heating—when body temperature rises without physical exertion. Studies suggest this may reduce inflammation, improve cardiometabolic health, and lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

A separate study from the University of Oregon found that regular hot baths may help lower blood pressure, likely due to increased nitric oxide levels, which relax and widen blood vessels.

Additionally, a 2015 Finnish study linked frequent sauna use to a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes in men.

Still, experts emphasize that hot baths cannot fully replace exercise. Physical activity remains essential for building strength, endurance, lung function, and overall fitness. Yet on recovery days or when mobility is limited, a hot bath can be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle.