METs (metabolic equivalents) Calculator
Calculate functional capacity
Convert measured or estimated peak oxygen uptake into standard metabolic equivalents.
About metabolic equivalents
A metabolic equivalent (MET) expresses oxygen uptake relative to a conventional resting reference of 3.5 mL O₂/kg/min. This calculator converts VO₂ peak into standard METs by dividing the entered value by 3.5.
Formula and units
| Parameter | Definition |
|---|---|
| VO₂ peak | Peak oxygen uptake, entered in mL/kg/min. |
| Reference value | 3.5 mL O₂/kg/min per conventional MET. |
| Formula | METs = VO₂ peak (mL/kg/min) ÷ 3.5. |
Clinical context
METs are commonly used to describe aerobic capacity and the metabolic intensity of activities. Interpret a calculated value in the context of how VO₂ peak was obtained, the exercise protocol, symptoms, effort, and the patient's clinical condition. A value derived from an estimated VO₂ peak is not equivalent to a directly measured cardiopulmonary exercise test result.
The conventional 3.5 mL/kg/min reference is a standardized approximation; an individual's actual resting oxygen uptake may differ. This conversion alone does not establish a diagnosis, determine prognosis, or prescribe an exercise intensity.
References
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