METwaarde

METwaarde, or metabolic equivalent of task, is a unit used in exercise physiology to express the energy cost of physical activities as multiples of resting metabolic rate. By definition, 1 MET equals the oxygen consumption at rest, typically about 3.5 milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute (roughly 1 kilocalorie per kilogram per hour). Some tables report absolute energy cost in kcal per minute, but the MET framework allows comparison across activities and individuals.

METwaarden are used to estimate how strenuous an activity is and to calculate total energy expenditure. They are applied in exercise prescription, rehabilitation, and epidemiological research to categorize intensity and tailor training programs. Activities are commonly classified as light (<3 METs), moderate (3–6 METs), or vigorous (>6 METs). Examples: sitting quietly ~1 MET; walking at a moderate pace ~3–4 METs; brisk walking ~4–6 METs; running varies from about 8–12 METs depending on speed.

Calculation and interpretation: METwaarde for an activity is the ratio of its oxygen consumption to the resting value, i.e., MET = VO2 activity / VO2 rest. Practically, one can estimate energy expenditure by multiplying MET value by duration in hours, yielding MET-hours, or MET-minutes by multiplying by minutes. These measures allow comparisons but are approximate for individuals; resting metabolic rate and efficiency differ among people and by age, sex, fitness, temperature, and body composition.

Limitations: METwaarden are population averages and may not reflect resting energy expenditure accurately for everyone, especially in children, the elderly, or patients with medical conditions. Use should be paired with other assessments when precision matters.