How Calorie Burn is Calculated
This calculator uses MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) values — a standardised measure of exercise intensity relative to rest. A MET of 1 equals energy expenditure at rest. Running at 10 km/h has a MET of about 10, meaning it burns roughly 10 times more energy than sitting still.
Calories (kcal) = MET × weight (kg) × duration (hours)
MET values are published in the Compendium of Physical Activities by Ainsworth et al. and are validated across large population studies.
Adaptive Athletes
Adaptive sport MET values are sourced from the Compendium's wheelchair and adapted activity data. Energy expenditure in wheelchair sports can vary significantly based on upper body muscle mass, propulsion technique, and each athlete's classification — treat these figures as useful estimates rather than exact values.
Factors That Affect Calorie Burn
- Body weight (heavier = more calories burned)
- Fitness level (fitter people may burn slightly fewer calories at the same effort)
- Temperature and environmental conditions
- Terrain (hills vs flat)
- Individual metabolic variation