Reviewer: David Chen, CPT (Certified Personal Trainer)
This calculator uses the widely accepted MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) methodology for calculating caloric expenditure.
Calculate the total calories you burn during your indoor cycling session. Accurate results depend on your body weight, duration, and the intensity of your effort (MET value).
Stationary Cycling Calories Calculator
Calories Burned:
0Stationary Cycling Calories Calculator Formula
Calories Burned = METs × Weight (kg) × Duration (hours)
Where: Weight (kg) = Weight (lbs) / 2.20462
Duration (hours) = Duration (minutes) / 60
Variables
- Weight (lbs): Your current body weight in pounds. Used to determine the absolute energy expenditure.
- Duration (minutes): The total time spent actively cycling, measured in minutes.
- Intensity (METs): The Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) value. This is a measure of the energy cost of a physical activity. Higher intensity equals higher METs and more calories burned.
What is Stationary Cycling Calories Calculator?
The Stationary Cycling Calories Calculator is an analytical tool used to estimate the total energy expenditure during a session on a stationary bike (spin bike, exercise bike, or trainer). It uses the scientifically-validated MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) formula, which standardizes activity intensity based on oxygen consumption relative to body mass.
Knowing your calorie burn is crucial for tracking fitness goals, managing weight, and ensuring energy balance. Since stationary cycling is a low-impact, high-cardio exercise, it’s an excellent activity for managing caloric deficit, making this calculator an invaluable planning tool.
How to Calculate Calories Burned (Example)
- Determine MET Value: Select the cycling intensity. Let’s assume **Moderate Effort (7.0 METs)**.
- Input Weight and Duration: Assume a user weighs **180 lbs** and cycles for **60 minutes**.
- Convert Units:
- Weight (kg): 180 lbs / 2.20462 ≈ 81.65 kg
- Duration (hours): 60 minutes / 60 ≈ 1 hour
- Apply Formula: Calories = 7.0 (METs) × 81.65 (kg) × 1 (hour)
- Final Result: Calories Burned ≈ 571.55 Calories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a MET value in cycling?
A MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) is the ratio of the energy used during an activity to the energy used at rest. One MET is roughly equal to the energy expenditure of sitting quietly. Stationary cycling METs range from 3.5 (light) to 10+ (very vigorous).
Why does body weight matter for calorie burn?
Calorie expenditure is directly proportional to body mass. A heavier person requires more energy (calories) to move and sustain the same activity level and intensity than a lighter person, thus burning more calories over the same duration.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator provides a scientific estimation based on average values. Actual calories burned depend on individual factors like fitness level, humidity, bike efficiency, and BMR. It should be used as a close estimate for planning and tracking, not a precise medical measurement.
Is cycling 3.5 METs considered low intensity?
Yes, an activity rated 3.5 METs is typically classified as light-intensity exercise, often characterized by little to no perceived exertion, like cycling very slowly or leisurely.