1. What is the Calories Burned Formula?

The calories burned formula estimates energy expenditure during physical activity using MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) 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:

• \( Time \) — Duration of activity in hours
• \( MET \) — Metabolic equivalent of the activity
• \( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms

Explanation: The formula calculates energy expenditure by multiplying the duration, intensity (MET), and body weight. One MET is defined as the energy cost of sitting quietly.

3. Importance of MET Values

Details: MET values standardize the intensity of different activities. For treadmill running:

• 5.0 METs: Walking at 3.5 mph (5.6 km/h)
• 8.0 METs: Running at 5 mph (8 km/h)
• 9.8 METs: Running at 6 mph (9.7 km/h)
• 11.0 METs: Running at 7 mph (11.3 km/h)

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Enter time in hours (e.g., 0.5 for 30 minutes)
• Use appropriate MET value for your running speed
• Enter weight in kilograms (1 kg = 2.2 lbs)
• All values must be positive numbers

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides a good estimate but individual results may vary based on fitness level, body composition, and running efficiency.

Q2: What's a typical MET value for treadmill running?
A: Most treadmill running ranges between 8-12 METs depending on speed. Jogging at 5 mph is about 8 METs.

Q3: Should I include warm-up/cool-down time?
A: Only include the time spent at your target intensity, or calculate warm-up/cool-down separately with lower MET values.

Q4: Does incline affect calories burned?
A: Yes, running uphill increases intensity. Add 0.5-1.0 MET per 1% grade increase.

Q5: How does weight affect results?
A: Heavier individuals burn more calories for the same activity because they're moving more mass.