Purpose and context
What does the Running Calorie Calculator do?
MET values describe the population-level energy cost of activities relative to a standard resting reference. Running intensity rises nonlinearly with speed.
Who it supports: Adults; the 2024 Adult Compendium page describes ages 19–59.
Transparent calculation
Formula and calculation method
Speed is converted to mph for the activity lookup, a running-specific MET is selected, and the standard MET energy equation is applied.
Worked calculation example
At 75 kg, 30 minutes and a selected 9.8 MET intensity, estimated energy is about 386 kcal.
The live calculator retains greater internal precision and rounds only when presenting the result.
How to use the Running Calorie Calculator
- Enter body weight and running duration.
- Enter average running speed.
- Calculate and review the selected MET and estimated distance.
Understanding your result
The result card identifies the value, unit, method, supporting values and an accuracy notice. Estimated and predicted outputs are labelled so that apparent precision is not mistaken for certainty.
Continue with the Pace Calculator for a related measurement using its own documented method.
Accuracy, assumptions and limitations
Grade, wind, surface, running economy, physiology and standard-MET assumptions affect actual expenditure.
Common input and interpretation mistakes
- Using a walking MET for running.
- Calling MET calories exact.
- Ignoring treadmill grade or strong wind.
Primary method source: https://pacompendium.com/running/.
Frequently asked questions about Running Calorie Calculator
A MET is a standardized activity-intensity value relative to a conventional resting metabolic rate.
Faster running generally requires more energy, so the Compendium assigns different values to different speed bands.
Not in this implementation; grade can materially change energy cost.
Wearables may use heart rate, proprietary models and individual profile data instead of the same standard MET method.
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