Moderate-Intensity Activities
The activities are generally measured in metabolic equivalents, or METs. One MET is defined as the caloric consumption of a person while at complete rest. For an average adult, this is approximately equal to one calorie per every 2.2 pounds of body weight per hour. Moderate intensity activities are defined as activities ranging between 3-6 METS. This means that you burn off 3-6 times as much energy per minute as when you are at complete rest.
Being physically active helps prevent or control non-communicable diseases. Whether you put on your dancing shoes or go for a swim, 30 minutes of moderate-level physical activity is all that is needed most days of the week.
Examples of moderate-intensity activities
| Common Chores | Sporting Activities |
|---|---|
| Gardening for 30-45 minutes | Walking 2 miles in 30 minutes |
| Raking leaves for 30 minutes | Swimming laps for 20 minutes |
| Shoveling snow for 15 minutes | Running 1.5 miles in 15 minutes |
| Walking up and down the stairs for 15 minutes | Playing basketball for 15-20 minutes |
| Washing your car for 45-60 minutes | Dancing fast for 30 minutes |
Be sure to check with your doctor before making fitness plans, including activities of moderate intensity. This is especially needed if you have heart disease or other serious health conditions, you’re over age 50 and not used to moderate-level physical activity, or you have family history of early age heart disease.
