Running Calorie Burn Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the running calorie burn calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Calories Burned
calories_burned = speed_mph * 3.5 * weight_kg / 200 * duration_minCalories per Minute
cal_per_minute = speed_mph * 3.5 * weight_kg / 200Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
weight_lbs | Body Weight(lbs) | 170 |
speed_mph | Running Speed(mph) | 8.3 |
duration_min | Duration(minutes) | 30 |
weight_kg | Derived value= weight_lbs * 0.453592 | calculated |
How It Works
Running Calorie Burn (MET Method)
Calories = MET x 3.5 x Weight(kg) / 200 x Duration(min)
MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) values for running increase with speed. A MET of 1 represents resting energy expenditure.
Running MET Values
Worked Example
A 170 lb person running at 6 mph for 30 minutes.
- 01Weight in kg = 170 x 0.4536 = 77.1 kg
- 02Calories = 8.3 x 3.5 x 77.1 / 200 x 30
- 03= 8.3 x 3.5 x 77.1 / 200 x 30 = 336 kcal
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories does running burn?
A general rule is about 100 calories per mile for a 155 lb person. Heavier individuals burn more, and faster speeds burn slightly more per mile.
Does running burn more calories than walking?
Yes, running has a higher MET value. Running a mile burns roughly 50% more calories than walking the same mile.
What is a MET?
MET stands for Metabolic Equivalent of Task. A MET of 1 is resting. An activity with a MET of 10 burns 10 times the resting rate.
Learn More
Guide
Running Pace Calculator Guide: How to Find and Improve Your Pace
Learn how to calculate running pace, understand pace vs. speed, set race targets, and use pace training to improve your performance at every distance from 5K to marathon.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Running Calorie Burn Calculator