Question 1

How are calories burned calculated?

Accepted Answer

Calories burned = MET × weight(kg) × time(hours). MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) values represent the energy cost of activities relative to resting. Running at 6 mph has MET≈10; walking at 3 mph is MET≈3.5; sitting quietly is MET=1. The formula gives net calories burned above rest.

Question 2

Are calorie burn estimates accurate?

Accepted Answer

MET-based estimates are accurate within ±20% for most people. Accuracy decreases for very fit individuals (who burn fewer calories for the same activity) or beginners (who may burn more). Fitness trackers add heart rate data but are still estimates, typically ±15–30%.

Question 3

Does body weight affect how many calories I burn?

Accepted Answer

Yes directly. A heavier person burns more calories doing the same activity because they must move more mass. A 100 kg person burns roughly 30% more calories running than an 80 kg person at the same pace for the same duration.

Question 4

Does cardio or strength training burn more calories?

Accepted Answer

Cardio burns more calories during the session. Strength training burns fewer calories during the workout but increases lean mass and resting metabolic rate, so you burn more calories at rest long-term. Both types are valuable — the best exercise is the kind you will consistently do.

Question 5

Should I track calories burned when dieting?

Accepted Answer

Use calorie burn estimates as rough guides, not precise numbers to eat back. The most reliable approach: eat a consistent calorie target based on your estimated TDEE, track your weight weekly, and adjust intake rather than relying on calorie-burn calculations from any tracker or calculator.

Calories Burned Calculator