1. What is the METs Formula?

The METs (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) formula calculates the ratio of a person's working metabolic rate relative to their resting metabolic rate. One MET is defined as the energy cost of sitting quietly.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the METs formula:

Where:

• \( METs \) — Metabolic Equivalent of Task (dimensionless)
• \( VO_2 \) — Oxygen consumption (mL/kg/min)
• 3.5 — Resting oxygen consumption (mL/kg/min)

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

3. Importance of METs Calculation

Details: METs are used to estimate energy expenditure during physical activity, prescribe exercise intensity, and assess functional capacity in cardiology.

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 is a typical METs value for different 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 are METs used in exercise prescription?
A: Moderate intensity = 3-6 METs, vigorous intensity = >6 METs. Used to tailor exercise programs to individual fitness levels.

Q3: What is the clinical significance of METs?
A: Used in stress testing - ability to achieve >10 METs indicates excellent prognosis, while <5 METs suggests poor functional capacity.

Q4: Are there limitations to METs calculations?
A: Assumes linear relationship between VO₂ and energy expenditure, which may vary with different activities and individuals.

Q5: How does body weight affect METs?
A: METs are weight-normalized (mL/kg/min), so the value is comparable across individuals of different sizes.