1. What is the Calories Burned Equation?

The calories burned equation estimates energy expenditure during physical activity using MET (metabolic equivalent) values, which represent the intensity of an activity compared to resting metabolism.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( \text{MET} \) — Metabolic equivalent of task (dimensionless)
• \( \text{weight\_kg} \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( \text{minutes} \) — Duration of activity in minutes
• 3.5 — Oxygen consumption at rest (mL/kg/min)
• 200 — Conversion factor (kcal/mL of oxygen)

Explanation: The equation calculates calories burned by accounting for activity intensity (MET), body weight, and duration.

3. Importance of MET Values

Details: MET values range from 0.9 (sleeping) to 23 (running at 22.5 km/h). Common activities: walking (2.9-4.3), cycling (4-10), swimming (5-10).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter valid MET value (check activity tables), accurate weight in kg, and duration in minutes. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where can I find MET values for activities?
A: The Compendium of Physical Activities provides comprehensive MET values for hundreds of activities.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a reasonable estimate but individual variations in metabolism can affect actual calories burned.

Q3: Does this account for afterburn effect?
A: No, this calculates only calories burned during the activity. Higher intensity activities may continue burning calories afterward.

Q4: Should I use this for weight loss planning?
A: It can help estimate exercise energy expenditure, but nutrition and other factors are equally important for weight loss.

Q5: How does body composition affect results?
A: Muscle burns more calories than fat at rest, but this calculation uses total body weight for simplicity.