When to use this calculator
Estimate gross activity energy expenditure using an entered MET value. METs describe population averages. Gross energy includes the resting component and can differ substantially from personal measurements.
Explore the adult energy estimates calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Macro Calculator: Convert your chosen daily calorie amount and macronutrient percentages into grams of protein, carbohydrate and fat.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Calories Burned: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| Activity intensity (MET) | 4 |
| Adult body weight (kg) | 70 |
| Activity duration (minutes) | 30 |
| Age (years, integer) | 30 |
| Result | 147 kcal |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Gross kcal ≈ MET × 3.5 × body weight/200 × minutes..
- The result is 147 kcal, rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
METs describe population averages. Gross energy includes the resting component and can differ substantially from personal measurements.
Population equations and MET values are estimates rather than personal measurements. Activity multipliers can introduce substantial uncertainty. Outputs describe expenditure models, not prescribed intake, weight targets or treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is a BMR or TDEE estimate a calorie-intake prescription?
No. It is a modelled expenditure value. It does not account for every personal or clinical factor or prescribe what an individual should eat.
When is the calories burned calculator useful?
Estimate gross activity energy expenditure using an entered MET value. METs describe population averages. Gross energy includes the resting component and can differ substantially from personal measurements.
How do I use the calories burned calculator?
Enter activity intensity (met), adult body weight (kg), activity duration (minutes), age (years, integer). The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Gross kcal ≈ MET × 3.5 × body weight/200 × minutes..
What should I check before using the result?
METs describe population averages. Gross energy includes the resting component and can differ substantially from personal measurements.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
Further reading
For background on this topic, see Compendium of Physical Activities: MET definitions ↗. This is a topic reference, not an external review or endorsement of this tool.
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