Running a mile generally burns about 100 calories, but this number varies based on factors such as body weight, running speed, and individual differences in running mechanics. For example, a 120-pound person running a 10-minute mile burns approximately 114 calories, while a 180-pound person burns about 170 calories for the same mile
. Key factors affecting calorie burn per mile include:
- Weight: Heavier individuals burn more calories because their bodies expend more energy to move
- Pace: Running faster can increase overall calorie burn due to higher intensity and after-burn effects, although calories burned per mile stay roughly constant because of improved running efficiency at higher speeds
- Running mechanics: Variations in ground contact time, vertical motion, and muscular strength influence energy expenditure
In summary, a rough estimate is about 100 calories per mile for an average- weight person, with actual calories burned ranging from roughly 100 to 170 calories depending on weight and other factors
