To know how many calories you burn during a weightlifting session, you have to measure your breathing for at least 90 minutes after you finish—most of the burn happens after you’re done lifting.

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Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

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The effect of Between-Set Rest Intervals on the Oxygen Uptake During and After Resistance Exercise Sessions Performed with Large- and Small-Muscle Mass

Randomized Controlled Trial

Human

2011 Nov

The study found that after lifting heavy weights with big muscle groups like legs, your body keeps burning calories for up to 40 minutes afterward—more than during the actual workout. This means most of the energy burned happens after you’re done exercising.

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No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

The effect of Between-Set Rest Intervals on the Oxygen Uptake During and After Resistance Exercise Sessions Performed with Large- and Small-Muscle Mass

Score: 46

DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e318212e415

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