Calories Burned During Exercise Calculator
Calculate how many calories you burned during your workout using MET values based on your body weight and exercise duration.
The Science of Calorie Burning
Different exercises demand different amounts of energy from your body. Exercise scientists measure this energy demand using an unit called the Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET).
Understanding MET Values
One MET is defined as the energy you use when resting quietly. An activity with a MET value of 4 means you are burning 4 times as many calories as you would while resting. Running typically ranges from 8.0 to 12.0 METs depending on speed.
Worked Example
- Weight: 150 lbs (68 kg)
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Activity: General Running (MET = 8.0)
- Calories = (Duration in minutes * MET * 3.5 * Weight in kg) / 200
- Calories = (30 * 8.0 * 3.5 * 68) / 200 = 285.6 kcal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do heavy people burn more calories?
It takes more physical energy to move a larger mass across a distance. A 200 lb person running a mile will burn significantly more calories than a 150 lb person running the exact same mile. These are estimates and may not reflect actual values. Always verify important calculations independently.