Metabolic Equivalents (METS)
METs are a way of describing the amount of energy that is required to perform a given activity. One MET is equivalent to basal metabolic rate (BMR). Walking on the flat uses 2 to 3 METS. Cycling at 16 km/h on the flat uses 4 METS. Jogging uses approximately 8 METS.
In the post-operative period a patient's BMR can increase by up to four times. Patients who cannot sustain 4 METS of activity pre-operatively, may lack the cardio-respiratory reserve to undergo major surgery.
In the post-operative period a patient's BMR can increase by up to four times. Patients who cannot sustain 4 METS of activity pre-operatively, may lack the cardio-respiratory reserve to undergo major surgery.