WHAT EXACTLY ARE METs AND WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT THAM?

METs (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) are a unit used to measure the energy expenditure of physical activities. One MET represents the amount of energy (calories) your body uses while at rest, and activities are rated in multiples of this baseline.

 Key Points About METs:

1. Definition:

   - 1 MET: the energy expended while at rest (approximately 3.5 mL of oxygen per kg of body weight per minute).

   - Activities with higher MET values require more energy and burn more calories.

2. Activity Examples by METs:

   - 1 MET: Sitting quietly or lying down (resting).

   - 3–4 METs: Walking at a moderate pace (3 mph).

   - 6–8 METs: Jogging or cycling at a moderate intensity.

   - 10+ METs: Running or intense cardiovascular exercises.

3. How METs Are Used:

   - Tracking fitness: METs help quantify the intensity of different exercises and can guide workout planning.

   - Calorie estimation: The higher the MET value, the more calories you burn. For example, an activity rated at 5 METs uses five times more energy than resting.

   - Exercise recommendations: Health guidelines suggest aiming for moderate activities (3–6 METs) or vigorous activities (6+ METs) for maintaining health.

4. Personalized MET Calculation:

   - Individual differences: METs are based on average values, but actual energy expenditure can vary based on factors like age, weight, and fitness level.

Conclusion:

METs are a useful way to measure and compare the intensity of physical activities. They can help guide you in selecting exercises that align with your fitness goals and give you an estimate of the energy you’re using.

The Bodyweight Team