Are calorie burn estimates accurate?
±10-20% error margins. Actual burn varies by fitness level, age, and metabolism.
Health Fitness
Calorie Burn Calculator
Calculate the number of calories burned during various physical activities
Estimate Your Calorie Burn
Get accurate estimates of calories burned based on type, duration, and intensity of activities
What this calculator does
A calorie burn calculator estimates energy expended during activities using MET values—a measure of intensity relative to resting metabolism. MET values range from 2.5 (light) to 11.5+ (vigorous).
How it works
Calories = (MET × body weight kg × duration minutes) ÷ 60. MET values vary by activity and intensity.
Formula
Calories = MET × weight (kg) × hours. Example: Running 8 MET × 70kg × 0.5 hr = 280 cal.
Tips for using this calculator
- Higher intensity burns more calories for same duration
- Heavier individuals burn more at same activity
- EPOC adds 5-10% to total burn after intense workouts
- Consistency matters more than intensity
- Include both cardio and strength training
Frequently asked questions
Why does walking burn fewer calories than running?
Running propels body into air repeatedly, requiring 2-3x more energy than walking.
How does body weight affect burn?
Heavier individuals burn proportionally more—200 lb person burns roughly 2x that of 100 lb person.