What Is the METs to VO2 Conversion Calculator?
This calculator converts a metabolic equivalent of task (MET) value into oxygen consumption (VO2) expressed in milliliters of oxygen per kilogram of body weight per minute (mL/kg/min). One MET represents the resting metabolic rate — the amount of oxygen your body uses while sitting quietly. By convention, 1 MET equals 3.5 mL/kg/min of oxygen uptake. The tool is universal and applies to any healthy adult regardless of country.
How to Use It
Enter the activity intensity in METs (for example, brisk walking is roughly 4 METs and running is 8–11 METs). Optionally enter your body weight in kilograms to also see your absolute oxygen consumption in liters per minute. Click calculate to view your relative VO2 and, if weight is provided, your absolute VO2.
The Formula Explained
The core relationship is $$\text{VO}_2 = \text{METs} \times 3.5 \ \text{mL/kg/min}$$. To convert this relative figure to an absolute rate, multiply by body weight and divide by 1000 to change milliliters to liters: $$\text{VO}_2^{\,abs} = \frac{\text{METs} \times 3.5 \times \text{Weight (kg)}}{1000} \ \text{L/min}$$.
Worked Example
Suppose an activity is rated at 8 METs for a 70 kg person. Relative VO2 = \(8 \times 3.5 = 28\) mL/kg/min. Absolute VO2 = \(28 \times 70 \div 1000 = 1.96\) L/min. So this activity demands about 28 mL/kg/min, or just under 2 liters of oxygen per minute for this individual.
FAQ
Why is 1 MET equal to 3.5 mL/kg/min? It is the standard reference value for resting oxygen uptake adopted by exercise physiologists, though actual resting metabolism varies between people.
Do I need to enter weight? No. Weight is only needed if you want absolute oxygen consumption in L/min; the relative value (mL/kg/min) does not require it.
Can I convert VO2 back to METs? Yes — simply divide your VO2 in mL/kg/min by 3.5 to get the equivalent METs.
