METs Activity Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the mets activity calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Calories Burned
calories_burned = met_value * 3.5 * weight_kg / 200 * duration_minCalories per Hour
cal_per_hour = met_value * 3.5 * weight_kg / 200 * 60Oxygen Consumption
oxygen_consumption = met_value * 3.5Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
weight_lbs | Body Weight(lbs) | 170 |
met_value | Activity MET Value(METs) | 5 |
duration_min | Duration(minutes) | 30 |
weight_kg | Derived value= weight_lbs * 0.453592 | calculated |
How It Works
MET Calorie Burn Formula
Calories = MET x 3.5 x Weight(kg) / 200 x Duration(min)
One MET equals 3.5 mL of oxygen per kg of body weight per minute, which is the resting metabolic rate.
Common MET Values
Worked Example
A 170 lb person doing an activity at MET 5.0 for 30 minutes.
- 01Weight = 77.1 kg
- 02Calories = 5.0 x 3.5 x 77.1 / 200 x 30
- 03= 5.0 x 3.5 x 77.1 / 200 x 30 = 203 kcal
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a MET value?
MET stands for Metabolic Equivalent of Task. A MET of 1.0 is resting. Activities with higher MET values require proportionally more energy.
Where do I find MET values for activities?
The Compendium of Physical Activities lists MET values for hundreds of activities. Common values range from 1 (sleeping) to 23 (running at sprint pace).
Are MET-based calorie estimates accurate?
MET estimates are reasonably accurate for most people. They may overestimate for lighter individuals and underestimate for heavier ones due to the linear weight assumption.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open METs Activity Calculator