What is Calories Burned Calculator?
The MET (metabolic equivalent of task) method estimates energy expenditure by comparing the intensity of an activity to resting metabolism. One MET is roughly the energy you use sitting still; running at 6 mph is about 9.8 METs, meaning nearly ten times the resting rate. Multiply the MET value by 3.5, your body weight in kilograms and the duration, and divide by 200 to get calories. The result depends heavily on weight — a heavier person burns more for the same activity — and on the MET value, which varies with effort and efficiency. Use these figures to compare activities and to estimate the calorie cost of a workout, keeping in mind that 10–20% error is normal.
Common Uses for Calories Burned Calculator
- Estimate the calorie cost of a workout
- Compare activities by energy expenditure
- Budget calories for a planned exercise session
- See how much harder intervals burn than steady work
Frequently Asked Questions
Are calories burned accurate?
They are estimates within roughly 10–20%. MET values come from population averages and do not account for individual efficiency, intensity within a session, or fitness level. Treat them as comparisons, not precise numbers.
Does the calculator include resting calories?
Yes — MET-based figures include the resting energy you would have burned anyway during that time, because 1 MET is resting. The net additional burn is the total minus about 1 MET's worth.
Why does weight matter so much?
Moving a heavier body takes more energy, so calories scale roughly with body weight. This is why two people doing the same run can burn very different amounts.
Which burns more: running or cycling?
Per minute, running at a moderate pace usually burns slightly more than moderate cycling. Per kilometre the gap narrows. The best activity is one you will repeat consistently.
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