Want to burn off calories? Watch a horror film, UK study suggests

Want to burn off those calories from all that Halloween candy you ate? Watching a scary flick might help, a new study suggests. The study by the University of Westminster indicates just 90 minutes of "adrenaline-pumping terror" in watching a scary movie can use up as much as 113 calories, the same used up in a 30-minute walk. "Each of the 10 films tested set pulses racing, sparking an increase in the heart rate of the case studies. As the pulse quickens and blood pumps around the body faster, the body experiences a surge in adrenaline," said Dr, Richard Mackenzie, senior lecturer and specialist in cell metabolism and physiology at the University of Westminster, according to a report on UK's The Telegraph. "It is this release of fast acting adrenaline, produced during short bursts of intense stress (or in this case, brought on by fear), which is known to lower the appetite, increase the Basal Metabolic Rate and ultimately burn a higher level of calories," he added. Also, the research found films featuring moments designed to make viewers jump in terror are the best calorie-burners, causing heart rates to soar. "We all know the feeling of wanting to hide behind the sofa or grab a pillow when watching scary or hair raising scenes, but this research suggests that maybe those seeking to burn some calories should keep their eyes on the screen," said Helen Cowley, editor of the movie rental company LOVEFiLM, which commissioned the University of Westminster study. For the study, the researchers measured the total energy expenditure of 10 people who watched a selection of frightening movies. The researchers recorded subjects' heart rates, oxygen intake and carbon dioxide output. During the study, the researchers discovered the number of calories used increased by on average a third during the films. Top 10 list The study also drew up a list of top calorie burners, with the 1980 psychological thriller "The Shining" placing first by having the viewer use up some 184 calories. At second spot was "Jaws," with viewers burning on average 161 calories. "The Exorcist" was third, with 158 calories. The others in the list were: