Metabolic Equivalent

Definition

Metabolic Equivalent, or MET, is a measure of the energy cost of physical activities. It represents the amount of energy used by the body at rest, and activities are rated in comparison to this resting state.

Scientific / Technical Definition

The Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) is a physiological concept that quantifies the amount of energy expended during physical activities compared to the resting metabolic rate. One MET is defined as the amount of oxygen consumed while sitting at rest, equal to 3.5 ml of oxygen per kg of body weight per minute, representing an individual's resting energy expenditure.

Benefits

• Helps in determining the intensity of physical activities.
• Assists in calculating calories burned during exercises.
• Useful for creating personalized exercise and training programs.
• Provides a common standard to compare different physical activities.

Examples

• Walking at a slow pace (approximately 2 METs).
• Jogging or running (approximately 5-10 METs depending on speed).
• Cycling (approximately 6-8 METs depending on speed and resistance).

Additional Information

• importance: Understanding METs is important for accurately assessing and comparing the energy expenditure of various exercises and activities. It helps both in clinical settings for physical rehabilitation and in everyday life for fitness enthusiasts.

Related Terms

• Basal Metabolic Rate
• Physical Activity Level
• Resting Metabolic Rate
• Caloric Expenditure
• Energy Balance

References

• Exercise Intensity: How to Measure it and What's a MET?
• Compendium of Physical Activities: Classification of Energy Costs of Human Physical Activities