MET
Also written as: MET — Metabolic Equivalent of Task
Standardized unit measuring the energy expenditure of physical activities relative to resting metabolic rate.
Full Definition
A Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) is a physiological measure expressing the energy cost of physical activities as a multiple of resting metabolic rate. One MET is defined as the energy expenditure at rest, equivalent to approximately 3.5 mL of oxygen consumption per kilogram of body weight per minute. Activities are classified by MET intensity: light (1.5-3 METs), moderate (3-6 METs), and vigorous (>6 METs). METs are widely used in preventive cardiology for exercise prescription, risk stratification, and assessing functional capacity during stress testing.
Usage
Usage note: Always uppercase when abbreviated; plural is METs without apostrophe.
In Context
- "The patient achieved 10 METs during exercise testing, indicating good functional capacity." — stress test report
- "Moderate-intensity activities of 3-6 METs are recommended for cardiovascular health." — exercise prescription