Compendium of Physical Activities: classification of energy costs of human physical activities

TLDR

The study presents a coding scheme for classifying physical activity by energy expenditure intensity. The scheme, based on a review of published and unpublished data, uses a five‑digit code that categorizes activity by purpose, type, and intensity expressed as METs. The coding system enables estimation of energy expenditure in kcal or kcal/kg for any activity and enhances comparability across studies using self‑reported physical activity.

Abstract

A coding scheme is presented for classifying physical activity by rate of energy expenditure, i.e., by intensity. Energy cost was established by a review of published and unpublished data. This coding scheme employs five digits that classify activity by purpose (i.e., sports, occupation, self-care), the specific type of activity, and its intensity as the ratio of work metabolic rate to resting metabolic rate (METs). Energy expenditure in kilocalories or kilocalories per kilogram body weight can be estimated for all activities, specific activities, or activity types. General use of this coding system would enhance the comparability of results across studies using self reports of physical activity.