Calorie Burner US
Last updated: · Based on Compendium of Physical Activities
Popular Activities - Calories Reference
Calories burned in 30 minutes for a 70 kg person:
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your weight in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg)
- Set the duration in minutes
- Type or select an activity from over 600 options
- View your results including calories burned and mass equivalent
Frequently Asked Questions
How are calories burned calculated?
Calories burned are calculated using the MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) formula: Calories = MET × weight(kg) × time(hours). MET values are sourced from the 2024 Compendium of Physical Activities, a peer-reviewed database maintained by Arizona State University researchers.
How many calories does walking burn?
Walking burns approximately 3.5-5 calories per minute depending on speed and body weight. A 70 kg person walking for 30 minutes burns about 150 calories.
What is a MET value?
MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) represents the energy cost of an activity compared to rest. 1 MET equals resting metabolism (~3.5 mL O₂/kg/min). Walking is about 3.5 METs, running is 8-12 METs, and intense activities like swimming laps can be 10+ METs.
How many calories do I need to burn to lose weight?
To lose 1 pound (0.45 kg) of body fat, you need to burn approximately 3,500 calories more than you consume. According to CDC guidelines, a safe weight loss rate is 1-2 pounds per week, which requires a daily deficit of 500-1,000 calories through diet and exercise combined.
How accurate is this calorie calculator?
According to research in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, MET-based calculations typically have an accuracy range of ±15-20% for most individuals. Factors like fitness level, body composition, and activity intensity can affect actual calorie burn. See our methodology section for details.
Scientific Methodology
Data Source: Compendium of Physical Activities
Our MET values are sourced from the 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities, the gold-standard reference for energy expenditure research. This peer-reviewed database is maintained by researchers at Arizona State University and endorsed by the ACSM.
The MET Formula
We use the standard metabolic equation recommended by exercise physiologists:
Energy Expenditure Formula
This formula assumes a resting metabolic rate (RMR) of approximately 1 kcal/kg/hour, which is the baseline for all MET calculations.
Accuracy Considerations
According to research published in the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, MET-based calculations typically have an accuracy range of ±15-20% for most individuals. Factors affecting accuracy include:
- Fitness level: Trained individuals may burn fewer calories for the same activity
- Body composition: Muscle mass affects metabolic rate
- Environmental factors: Temperature, humidity, and altitude can impact energy expenditure
- Technique: Movement efficiency varies between individuals
Database Coverage
Our calculator includes 616 activities across categories including:
- Sports and recreation
- Conditioning exercises
- Home activities
- Occupation-related activities
- Walking and running
- Water activities
Scientific References
- Herrmann SD, Willis EA, Ainsworth BE, et al. 2024 Adult Compendium of Physical Activities: A third update of the activity codes and MET intensities. J Sport Health Sci. 2024. pacompendium.com
- Ainsworth BE, Haskell WL, Herrmann SD, et al. 2011 Compendium of Physical Activities: a second update of codes and MET values. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011;43(8):1575-1581. PubMed
- American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription. 11th ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2021.
- Hall KD. What is the required energy deficit per unit weight loss? Int J Obes. 2008;32(3):573-576. (Source for 3,500 kcal/lb estimate)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Physical Activity and Your Weight and Health. CDC.gov
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