METs Calculation Formula:
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METs (Metabolic Equivalents) represent the energy cost of physical activities as a multiple of resting metabolic rate. One MET is defined as the energy expended while sitting at rest.
The calculator uses the METs formula:
Where:
Explanation: This calculation helps quantify the intensity of physical activities by comparing the energy expenditure to resting metabolic rate.
Details: METs scores are crucial for exercise prescription, cardiac rehabilitation, weight management programs, and assessing the intensity of various physical activities in both clinical and research settings.
Tips: Enter the workload value (which can vary depending on the activity being measured) and your weight in kilograms. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What activities have known MET values?
A: Many common activities have standardized MET values, such as walking (3-6 METs), running (8-16 METs), cycling (4-12 METs), and household chores (2-5 METs).
Q2: How are METs used in exercise programming?
A: METs help quantify exercise intensity, allowing healthcare providers to prescribe appropriate activity levels based on a person's fitness and health status.
Q3: What is considered a moderate-intensity activity?
A: Activities rated at 3-6 METs are generally considered moderate intensity, while those above 6 METs are considered vigorous intensity.
Q4: Can METs be used for weight management?
A: Yes, since METs estimate energy expenditure, they can help calculate calories burned during activities, which is useful for weight management programs.
Q5: Are there limitations to MET calculations?
A: MET values are estimates and may vary based on individual factors like fitness level, efficiency of movement, and environmental conditions.