One way to measure a person‘s cardiofitness is to calculate how many METs, or metabolic units, he
or she can reach at peak exertion. One MET is the amount of energy used when sitting quietly. To
calculate ideal METs, we can use the expression:
14.7 – age · 0.13 For women
or 14.7 – age · 0.11 For men
Researchers recommend that a person reach approximately 85% of his or her MET when
exercising. Calculate 85% of the ideal MET for a 65–yr–old woman. Then refer to the following
table. What activity can the woman do that is approximately this value?
Activity METs Activity METS
Golfing (with cart) 2.5 Skiing (water or downhill) 6.8
Walking (3 mph) 3.3 Swimming 7.0
Mowing lawn (power mower) 4.5 Walking (5 mph) 8.0
Ballroom or square dancing 5.5 Jogging 10.2
Cycling 5.7 Skipping rope 12.0