Met - Human Metabolic Rates

The metabolic rate, or human body heat or power production, is often measured in the unit "Met". This tool provides a comprehensive table of typical metabolic rates for common activities, measured in W/m², W (Watts), Btu/hr, and Met units. The metabolic rate of a relaxed seated person is one (1) Met, with a mean human body surface area of approximately 1.8 m² (19.4 ft²).

ActivityW/m²WBtu/hrMet Units
Reclining, Sleeping46832820.8
Seated relaxed581043561
Standing at rest701264301.2
Sedentary activity (office, dwelling, school, laboratory)701264301.2
Car driving801444911.4
Graphic profession - Book Binder851535221.5
Standing, light activity (shopping, laboratory, light industry)931675711.6
Teacher951715831.6
Domestic work - shaving, washing and dressing1001806141.7
Walking on the level, 2 km/h1101986751.9
Standing, medium activity (shop assistant, domestic work)1162097122
Building industry - Brick laying (Block of 15.3 kg)1252257682.2
Washing dishes standing1452618902.5
Domestic work - raking leaves on the lawn17030610432.9
Domestic work - washing by hand and ironing (120-220 W)17030610432.9
Iron and steel - ramming the mold with a pneumatic hammer17531510753
Building industry - forming the mold18032411053.1
Walking on the level, 5 km/h20036012283.4
Forestry - cutting across the grain with a one-man power saw20536912593.5
Volleyball, Bicycling (15 km/h)23241814244
Calisthenics26147016024.5
Building industry - loading a wheelbarrow with stones and mortar27549516884.7
Golf, Softball29052217805
Gymnastics31957419595.5
Aerobic Dancing, Swimming34862421376
Sports - Ice skating, 18 km/h, Bicycling (20 km/h)36064822106.2
Agriculture - digging with a spade (24 lifts/min.)38067423336.5
Skiing on level (good snow, 9 km/h), Backpacking, Skating ice or roller, Basketball, Tennis40572924877
Handball, Hockey, Racquetball, Cross Country Skiing, Soccer46483528488
Running 12 min/mile, Forestry - working with an axe (weight 2 kg, 33 blows/min.)50090030708.5
Sports - Running 15 km/h55099033779.5