Calories Burned Running a Mile: Factors & Estimates
Most runners burn 80–140 calories per mile. Learn the key factors — weight, pace, and terrain — that determine your exact calorie burn per mile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories do you burn running a mile?
Most people burn between 80 and 140 calories per mile. The most accurate quick estimate is body weight in pounds multiplied by 0.71 — so a 150-lb person burns roughly 107 calories per mile.
Does running speed affect calories burned per mile?
Surprisingly, no — running pace has very little impact on calories burned per mile. Running faster burns more calories per minute, but you cover the mile in less time, so the per-mile total stays roughly the same.
Do you burn more calories running a mile or walking a mile?
Running a mile burns slightly more calories than walking the same distance — roughly 20–30% more — because the impact and biomechanics of running require extra energy. However, the gap narrows as walking speed increases.
How does body weight affect calories burned while running?
Body weight is the single biggest variable. A 120-lb runner burns about 85 calories per mile, while a 200-lb runner burns about 142 calories per mile — a 67% difference over the same distance.
Does running on a treadmill burn fewer calories than running outside?
Yes, slightly. Outdoor running burns roughly 5–10% more calories because your legs must propel you forward against air resistance, while a treadmill belt does some of that work. Setting your treadmill to a 1% incline compensates for this difference.