1. What is MET Level?

MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) is a unit that estimates the energy cost of physical activities. One MET is defined as the energy expenditure while sitting quietly, which is approximately 3.5 mL of oxygen consumption per kilogram of body weight per minute (mL/kg/min).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MET formula:

Where:

• \( MET \) — Metabolic Equivalent of Task (dimensionless)
• \( VO_2 \) — Oxygen consumption (mL/kg/min)
• 3.5 — Baseline oxygen consumption at rest (mL/kg/min)

Explanation: The formula compares the oxygen consumption during an activity to the baseline resting oxygen consumption.

3. Importance of MET Level Calculation

Details: MET levels help quantify exercise intensity, guide exercise prescription, and assess functional capacity in cardiac rehabilitation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter VO₂ in mL/kg/min. The value must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical MET values for activities?
A: Sitting quietly = 1 MET, walking at 3 mph = 3.5 METs, running at 6 mph = 10 METs, competitive swimming = 10+ METs.

Q2: How is VO₂ measured?
A: VO₂ can be measured directly through gas analysis during exercise testing or estimated from heart rate and workload.

Q3: What is MET-min/week?
A: A measure of total exercise volume calculated by multiplying MET value of activity by minutes performed per week.

Q4: Are there limitations to MET values?
A: MET values assume standard efficiency and don't account for individual differences in body composition or fitness.

Q5: How are METs used in clinical practice?
A: Used for exercise prescription, assessing functional capacity (e.g., 4 METs = ability to climb a flight of stairs), and predicting prognosis in cardiac patients.