Get MET

The metabolic equivalent of task (MET) is a physiological measure expressing the energy cost of physical activities. MET is a way of comparing the level of exertion and the energy spent when people of different weights perform the same physical activity. The published MET values for specific activities are derived from a sample and indicate averages only. You may find the chart below helpful:

Physical Activity	MET
Light Intensity Activities	< 3
sleeping	0.9
watching television	1.0
writing, desk work, typing	1.8
walking, 1.7 mph (2.7 km/h), level ground, strolling, very slow	2.3
walking, 2.5 mph (4 km/h)	2.9
Moderate Intensity Activities	3 to 6
bicycling, stationary, 50 watts, very light effort	3.0
walking 3.0 mph (4.8 km/h)	3.3
calisthenics, home exercise, light or moderate effort, general	3.5
walking 3.4 mph (5.5 km/h)	3.6
bicycling, <10 mph (16 km/h), leisure, to work or for pleasure	4.0
bicycling, stationary, 100 watts, light effort	5.5
Vigorous Intensity Activities	> 6
jogging, general	7.0
calisthenics (e.g. pushups, sit-ups, pull-ups, jumping jacks), heavy, vigorous effort	8.0
running jogging, in place	8.0
rope jumping	10.0

The METS required for sexual activity has been found, in multiple studies, to be in the 2-3 range for the pre-orgasm period and in the 3-4 range during orgasm. This is good information for post heart attack patients who years ago were often told to “go home and take it easy.” Post MI exercise programs often allow the patient and his/her sexual partner to feel more confident in issues dealing with intimacy with knowledge of this information.