Calories Burned Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How does the Calories Burned Calculator estimate energy expenditure?

The calculator relies on MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) values established by exercise physiology research. It calculates total energy expenditure using the standard equation:

Calories = MET × 3.5 × Weight (kg) / 200 × Duration (minutes)

2. What is a MET value?

A MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) represents the ratio of working metabolic rate relative to resting metabolic rate:

• 1.0 MET: Resting or sitting quietly (burning ~1 kcal per kg of body weight per hour).
• 3.5 METs: Moderate-intensity activity (e.g., walking at 3 mph).
• 8.0+ METs: High-intensity activity (e.g., fast running, competitive sports, intense swimming).

3. Why does body weight affect how many calories I burn?

Moving more mass requires more force and energy. A heavier individual burns significantly more calories performing the same physical activity for the same duration than a lighter person.

4. How accurate are these calorie estimations compared to fitness trackers?

This calculator provides a scientifically sound baseline estimate based on average population data. Smartwatches and heart-rate monitors may provide slightly different numbers because they continuously factor in individual heart rate, age, muscle composition, and real-time movement fluctuations.

5. How is estimated fat loss calculated?

Body fat tissue contains roughly 7,700 kcal per kilogram (or ~3,500 kcal per pound). The estimated fat burn metric divides your total calorie expenditure by 7.7 to calculate the maximum theoretical amount of body fat consumed to supply that energy.

6. Does intensity within the same activity change calorie burn?

Yes. Increasing pace, resistance, incline, or exertion levels elevates your MET score. For example, running at 7 mph (11.3 km/h) burns significantly more calories per minute than jogging at 5 mph (8 km/h).