Cycling Calorie Calculator
Estimate your energy expenditure based on speed and duration
How Does the Cycling Calorie Calculator Work?
Calculating the number of calories burned while cycling is essential for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to manage their weight. This calculator uses the MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) method to estimate energy expenditure.
The Science of METs in Cycling
A MET is a unit that represents the ratio of the work metabolic rate to the resting metabolic rate. One MET is defined as the energy it takes to sit quietly. For instance, cycling at a moderate speed has a MET value of 8.0, meaning you are burning eight times more energy than you would at rest.
The formula used for this calculation is:
Factors Influencing Calorie Burn
- Body Weight: Heavier individuals require more energy to move their mass against gravity and wind resistance, resulting in higher calorie burns.
- Intensity and Speed: As speed increases, wind resistance (drag) increases exponentially. This is why racing at 20+ mph burns significantly more calories than cruising at 12 mph.
- Terrain: Climbing hills significantly increases the MET value compared to riding on flat pavement.
- Wind: Headwinds act like invisible hills, forcing your muscles to work harder to maintain the same speed.
Example Calculation
If a person weighs 180 lbs (approx. 81.6 kg) and cycles for 45 minutes at a vigorous effort (MET 10.0):
- Convert duration to hours: 45 / 60 = 0.75 hours.
- Apply formula: 10.0 × 81.6 kg × 0.75 hours = 612 Calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mountain biking more intense than road cycling?
Generally, yes. Mountain biking involves technical terrain and frequent elevation changes, often resulting in a higher MET value (8.5 to 14.0) compared to steady-state road cycling.
Does an e-bike change the calculation?
Yes. Pedal-assist electric bikes reduce the physical effort required. If you are using an e-bike, you should select a lower intensity level (like "Leisurely") even if you are traveling at higher speeds.
How accurate is this calculator?
While MET-based calculations are scientifically grounded, they are estimates. Factors like metabolic rate, age, and actual muscular efficiency vary from person to person.