10 ways you burn calories every day without even trying.

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Fact: a good workout is a great way to get in shape, get your endorphins kicking and to feel better about the chocolate eclair you scoffed at lunch. But rest assured, there are other little things you do in your day-to-day life, without even thinking, that are burning calories. Yes, you’re essentially “working out” without the the need for lycra and a heavy gym bag. It’s a win-win situation. Consider this list your get-out-of-the-gym card.

1. Singing

No joke, singing burns up to 130 calories per hour so get the iPod ready and warn your neighbours. I highly recommend anything by Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston or Beyonce for maximum effect.

2. Partying

Don't spend Sunday regretting the night before, instead have a night off the booze and arrange with some friends to go dancing. A little wiggle on the dance floor is a great way to burn calories and you'll hardly even notice because you'll be having so much fun.

Related:How much alcohol can I really drink? 

3. Sex

Did you know that an hour of sexy times burns about 200 calories? Lock the door, put the phone on silent and get busy.

4. Shopping

You might not notice it, but a day at the shops is a great way to burn calories and tone your legs. Wear a pedometer next time you've got a shopping day planned and I guarantee you'll be amazed at how much walking you actually do while looking for a bargain.

If you need some advice on fitness trackers for your next shopping mission, here are some of the most popular ones on the market. (Post continues after gallery.)

5. Rearrange or redecorate

Dedicate a weekend to rearranging your house. It will clear your mind and create a fresh feeling to your space as well as getting doubling as a workout. Painting, for example, burns about 200 calories per hour so get yourself down to the hardware store and grab some paint swatches, stat.

6. Housework

Spend a Saturday morning cleaning your bathrooms and vacuuming the floors and I guarantee you'll feel the burn. By the end of your session you'll have not only have lost some additional calories but your place will look pretty spiffy too.

7. Don't skip breakfast

It's an oldie, but a goodie. Having breakfast kick starts your body and tells your metabolism to start working. Even having a small breakfast will let your body know that it's time to start burning calories and will help get rid of the sluggish feeling you might have in the morning.

8. Walk the walk

When your phone rings remind yourself to get up and walk around. You'll be preoccupied during the conversation and won't even realise that you've probably done a few happy laps of your home.

9. Avoid takeaway

This sounds simple but there are a couple of reasons why you should cook your own meals. Not only are you able to make healthier choices and know exactly what's going into your food but the act of cooking itself means that you're on your feet moving around the kitchen and therefore, you guessed it, burning calories. Add to that the washing up and you've been moving that booty for at least an extra half a hour.

10. Spice it up

Studies have shown that enjoying a spicy meal every now and then can be a great way of re-energising your metabolism and making it work a little bit harder for you. Try adding some chilli flakes to your dinner and work your way up to that beef rendang.

Related: How to become an exercise lover, when you really, really hate it.