1. What is the METs Equation?

The METs (Metabolic Equivalents) equation estimates the energy cost of physical activities during stress testing. It provides a standardized way to measure exercise intensity compared to resting metabolic rate.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the METs equation:

Where:

• \( speed_{mph} \) — Speed in miles per hour (mph)
• \( grade\% \) — Treadmill incline percentage (%)
• 3.5 — Resting oxygen consumption (mL/kg/min)

Explanation: The equation converts treadmill speed and grade into metabolic equivalents, where 1 MET equals resting energy expenditure.

3. Importance of METs Calculation

Details: METs are crucial for assessing functional capacity during cardiac stress tests, determining exercise prescription, and evaluating cardiovascular fitness.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter speed in mph and grade in percentage. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good METs score?
A: Generally, ≥10 METs indicates excellent functional capacity, while <5 METs suggests poor exercise capacity.

Q2: How does METs relate to exercise intensity?
A: 3-6 METs = moderate intensity, >6 METs = vigorous intensity. 1 MET equals sitting quietly.

Q3: Why is grade important in the calculation?
A: Incline significantly increases energy expenditure. A 1% grade approximately equals 0.1 mph speed increase in terms of oxygen demand.

Q4: Can this be used for running?
A: The equation is most accurate for walking speeds (1.9-4.5 mph). Running uses different energy expenditure patterns.

Q5: How does this relate to VO2 max?
A: Peak METs during stress testing can estimate VO2 max (1 MET ≈ 3.5 mL/kg/min of oxygen consumption).