watching horror movies is actually good for you

A study conducted by the University of Westminster, first published by The Telegraph in 2012, revealed that intense horror films can see a viewer burn up to 113 calories.

That's basically the equivalent of a 30 minute walk. However you're not outside enjoying the benefits of fresh air or exercise, but rather having your socks scared off by Freddy or Jason.

The study, originally commissioned by former DVD rental service Lovefilm, saw scientists measure heart rate, oxygen and carbon dioxide output whilst someone was watching a horror movie.

By the end of the study results showed that the number of calories used during the screening increased by a third.

Films that were deemed to have the most "jump-scares" were seen as the most likely to burn calories as they are actually provoking a physical reaction and accelerated a heart beat.

Physiologist, Dr Richard Mackenzie, who carried out the test is quoted as saying:

Participants were invited to watch 10 select horror movies to see which was the most effective calorie burner.

Stanley Kubrick's 1980 nerve shredder The Shining came out on top with 184 calories burned on average during its whopping 2 hour 26 minute run time.

Imagine what it would be like if you watched the film whilst on Danny's tricycle? A terrifying prospect.