Metabolic equivalent; the oxygen cost of energy expenditure at rest; 1 MET = 3-4 mL/kg/min

An expression of the energy it takes to sit quietly. It is frequently used as a measure of intensity on cardiovascular machines (treadmill, stationary bike, etc.) For example, moderate intensity activities are those that get you moving fast enough or strenuously enough to burn off three to six times as much energy per minute as you do when you are sitting quietly, measured as 3-6 METs.

The expression of the rate of work (power output) for the human body at rest, or a metabolic equivalent. One MET is approximately equal to a person's metabolism when seated and relaxed.

A measurement of oxygen consumption. One MET equals the approximate amount of oxygen consumed per minute by a person at rest. An individual exercising at two METs is consuming oxygen at twice his or her resting rate.

Also used to calculate energy use. A resting metabolic rate is 1 Met. Moderate exercise (such as a brisk walk at 3.5-4 mph) uses about 5-6 times the resting metabolic rate, or 5-6 METs.

An approximate unit of heat produced by a resting person, equal to about 18.5 Btu per square foot per hour.

1 MET is equal to the amount of energy expended during 1 minute at rest, which is roughly 3.5 milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of bodyweight per minute (3.5 ml/kg/min) or 1.2 kcals per minute for a 70 kg (150 lb.) person.