What are the MET values for Light Intensity?

• A. 3-6 METs
• B. 1.6-2.9 METs
• C. 0-1.5 METs
• D. >6 METs

Answer: (B)

MET values quantify how much energy an activity requires relative to resting energy expenditure. Light intensity sits in the range of about 1.6 to 2.9 METs, meaning it uses roughly 1.6 to 2.9 times the energy you burn at rest. This is lower than moderate intensity, which starts around 3 METs and goes up to about 5.9 METs, and far below vigorous intensity, which is 6 METs or more. Activities commonly labeled as light intensity include slow walking and light household tasks, which typically fall in the 1.6–2.9 MET range. Very sedentary activities are closer to 1.0–1.5 METs, so they aren’t considered light intensity. Therefore, the value that best represents light intensity is 1.6–2.9 METs.