metabolic equivalent unit (MET)

Introduction

A resting metabolic unit, the equivalent of 1.2 calories per minute or 3.5-4.0 mL/kg/min; 1 MET equals the amount of energy expended at rest.

• Estimated energy requirements for various activities:

• 1 MET:
  • able to take care of self
  • eat, dress & use the toliet
  • walk indoors around the house
  • walk a block or 2 on level ground at 2-3 mph (3.2-4.8 km/h)

• 4 METS
  • climb 2 flights of stairs without resting
    • climbing 2 flights of stairs is equivalent to 4-5 METS
  • walk up a hill
  • run a short distance
  • do heavy work around the house, i.e. scrubbing floors or moving heavy furniture
  • recreational activities such as golf, bowling, dancing, double tennis, or throwing a baseball or football

• 8 METS
  • carrying an infant up a flight of stairs

• > 10 METS
  • strenous sports, i.e. swimming, singles tennis, football, basketball or skiing