According to METs, which range is considered Light Intensity?

• A. 3-6 METs
• B. >6 METs
• C. 6-9 METs
• D. <3 METs

Answer: (D)

METs measure energy expenditure relative to resting energy use, with 1 MET being the rate of energy used at rest. Light-intensity activities require more energy than resting but less than moderate effort, typically less than 3 METs. Moderate intensity is about 3 to 6 METs, and vigorous intensity is greater than 6 METs. So the range that fits light intensity is under 3 METs. Examples include casual walking or light household tasks that raise activity a bit but don’t push you into moderate effort. The other ranges describe moderate or vigorous levels of effort, not light.