Is MET better than a bike computer calorie estimate?

Not always. MET estimates are simple and transparent. Bike computers may use heart rate, power, speed, and personal data, but they can still be inaccurate. Power-based estimates are usually strongest when the power meter is accurate.

What MET should I choose for cycling?

Choose based on effort, not just speed. A light recovery spin may be around 4 METs, moderate cycling may be around 6 to 8 METs, and hard sustained riding can be 10 METs or more. Terrain and wind can make the same speed feel very different.

Can I use this for indoor cycling?

Yes, but choose the intensity that matches the actual effort. Indoor bikes vary widely, and calorie displays on machines are often estimates unless calibrated with reliable power data.

Sports & Fitness

Cycling Calorie By MET Calculator

Estimate calories burned while cycling from body weight, duration, and MET intensity, with moderate, vigorous, indoor, and outdoor cycling examples. This tool is built for practical cycling planning, so it includes the core calculation plus supporting outputs, step-by-step explanation, examples, and guidance for real-world riding conditions.

How MET calorie estimates work

A MET estimate uses body weight, time, and activity intensity. The Adult Compendium of Physical Activities defines one MET as approximately 1 kcal per kilogram per hour and provides MET values for many activities; see the Compendium of Physical Activities definition of METs. This calculator applies that standard MET calorie method to cycling.

Formula

Calories ≈ MET × body weight (kg) × duration (hours)

This is useful when you do not have a power meter. If you do have reliable power data, a power-based estimate may be more specific for cycling because it measures mechanical work directly.

Why calorie estimates vary

METs are averages. Real calorie burn changes with fitness, wind, hills, riding position, drafting, stops, bike type, and whether the ride is indoors or outdoors. Use the result as an estimate, not a precise food target.

Frequently asked questions

Not always. MET estimates are simple and transparent. Bike computers may use heart rate, power, speed, and personal data, but they can still be inaccurate. Power-based estimates are usually strongest when the power meter is accurate.
Choose based on effort, not just speed. A light recovery spin may be around 4 METs, moderate cycling may be around 6 to 8 METs, and hard sustained riding can be 10 METs or more. Terrain and wind can make the same speed feel very different.
Yes, but choose the intensity that matches the actual effort. Indoor bikes vary widely, and calorie displays on machines are often estimates unless calibrated with reliable power data.