termsTerm
MET-hours per week
aka Metabolic equivalent of task, Exercise dose
The unit used to measure how much exercise someone does. One MET is the energy of sitting quietly; brisk walking is about 4 METs, so 45 minutes of brisk walking is 3 MET-hours. Guidelines aim for around 10 MET-hours a week.
MET-hours per week integrate intensity and duration and allow dose-response analysis across cohorts and trials. Observational studies in colon and breast cancer survivors show 40-50% lower mortality above roughly 18 MET-hours/week versus under 3; the CHALLENGE trial targeted an increase of 10 MET-hours/week over baseline, achieved with three to four brisk walks. The measure is self-reported in most studies, which accelerometry and wearables are replacing.
Category
Nutrition & lifestyle