1. What is the Swim Calorie Calculation?

The swim calorie calculation estimates energy expenditure during swimming based on distance swum, the swimmer's weight, and the metabolic equivalent (MET) value of the swimming activity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( distance\_m \) — Distance swum in meters
• \( met \) — Metabolic equivalent of task (dimensionless)
• \( weight\_kg \) — Swimmer's weight in kilograms

Explanation: The formula calculates calories burned by multiplying distance by the MET value (adjusted by 100) and the swimmer's weight.

3. Importance of MET Values

Details: MET values represent the energy cost of physical activities. Swimming typically ranges from 5.8 METs (leisurely) to 10+ METs (vigorous swimming).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter distance in meters, select appropriate MET value for your swimming intensity, and enter your weight in kg. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical MET values for swimming?
A: General swimming: 5.8 METs, moderate effort: 8-10 METs, vigorous effort: 10+ METs, treading water: 3.5 METs.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a reasonable estimate but individual factors like swimming efficiency and water temperature affect actual calories burned.

Q3: Should I use pool length or GPS distance?
A: For pool swimming, use exact pool length multiplied by laps. For open water, GPS distance is more accurate.

Q4: Does stroke type affect calories burned?
A: Yes, butterfly typically burns the most calories, followed by freestyle, backstroke, then breaststroke.

Q5: Can I use this for other water activities?
A: Yes, with appropriate MET values (e.g., water aerobics: 4 METs, water polo: 10 METs).