How the Cycling Calorie Calculator Works
This tool calculates calorie expenditure from your cycling rides using MET values (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) from the Compendium of Physical Activities, the scientifically recognized worldwide standard.
The Calculation Formula
Calories = MET x Weight (kg) x Time (hours)
Time is derived from distance and average speed: Time = Distance / Speed.
For example, a 75 kg person riding 30 km at 20 km/h: MET 8 x 75 kg x 1.5 hours = 900 kcal.
MET Values by Speed
- 15 km/h (MET 6.0): relaxed pace, leisure cycling, urban commuting
- 20 km/h (MET 8.0): moderate speed, the most common pace for regular cyclists
- 25 km/h (MET 10.0): vigorous pace, structured training
- 30 km/h (MET 12.0): racing pace, requires good athletic preparation
Cycling for Health
Cycling is one of the best sports for cardiovascular health, with several advantages over running: it is low impact (no stress on knees and ankles), allows longer training sessions without overload, and integrates easily into daily life as transportation.