MET stands for which of the following?

• A. Metabolic energy transfer
• B. Medical emergency test
• C. Maximum exertion threshold
• D. Metabolic equivalent table

Answer: (D)

MET is a unit that expresses the energy cost of activities as multiples of resting metabolic rate. One MET roughly equals the energy used at rest, about 3.5 mL O2 per kg per minute. In rehab and exercise planning, MET values let you compare how strenuous different activities are and set appropriate exercise intensities. A metabolic equivalent table is a compiled reference that lists the MET values for many common activities, enabling quick estimation of how hard a task will be for a patient. That combination—the idea of measuring energy cost and having a ready table to look up values—makes the metabolic equivalent table the best match among the options. (Note: in many texts MET is described as metabolic equivalent of task, but the practical tool clinicians use for planning is the MET table that maps activities to energy cost.)