How to Calculate Calories Burned

What is Calories Burned?

A calories burned calculator estimates energy expenditure during physical activity using MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) values multiplied by body weight and duration.

Formula

Calories per minute = MET × weight(kg) × 3.5 / 200; Total = Calories/min × duration(minutes)

MET: Metabolic Equivalent of Task (ratio)
W: Body weight (kg)
T: Duration (minutes)

Step-by-Step Guide

1Calories/min = MET × weight (kg) × 3.5 / 200
2Total = Calories/min × duration (minutes)
3MET 1 = sitting at rest; running is MET 8–12
4Actual calorie burn varies with fitness level and intensity

Worked Examples

Input

Running (MET 8), 70kg, 30 minutes

Result

8 × 70 × 3.5 / 200 × 30 = 294 calories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MET?

MET = metabolic equivalent. 1 MET = sitting at rest. Running is 8-12 MET depending on speed.

Why does body weight matter?

Heavier bodies require more energy to move. A 90kg person burns more calories than 70kg doing the same activity.

Are these estimates accurate?

Within ±10-20%. Actual burn varies by fitness level, age, gender, and heart rate. Wearables use personal data.