What is a MET?
Thursday, July 26th, 2012 | Fitness, MET, Metabolic Equivalent | No Comments
Q: While working out on your favorite cardio machine, you notice the screen displays a number for “METs”. What is a MET and how does it relate to your exercise?”
A: A MET, or metabolic equivalent, is a tool used to define the intensity of any physical activity. 3 METS or less is categorized as light intensity. Light activities can include making the bed, sitting at a desk, or walking less than 3 mph. Moderate intensity ranges from 3-6 METS. Washing the car, walking 3-4 mph, or ballroom dancing can all be considered as moderate activities. Vigorous intensity is anything above 6 METS. These activites would be very brisk walking or jogging, playing a basketball game, or swimming laps. Because heart rate can vary due to a person’s age and/or physical condition, METS are a more convenient way to monitor exercise intensity. Next time you are exercising on a piece of cardio equipment, check your METS to see that you are at least in the moderate or vigorous categories to get the most benefit from your workout!
