Which of the following best describes the role of metabolic equivalents in exercise?

Metabolic equivalents, often referred to as METs, are a valuable tool for quantifying exercise intensity. A MET is defined as the amount of oxygen consumed while sitting at rest and serves as a standard measure that expresses the energy expenditure of activities. When an activity has a MET value, it indicates how many times more intense that activity is compared to resting. For example, an activity with a MET value of 5 requires five times the energy expenditure than resting.

Using METs allows individuals to understand and compare the relative intensity of different forms of exercise. For instance, walking briskly might have a MET value of 4, while running might have a MET value of 8. This quantification aids individuals in tailoring their exercise routines based on their fitness goals, helping them achieve appropriate levels of intensity for cardiovascular fitness, weight management, or overall health.

Other options, while relevant to overall fitness and wellbeing, do not encapsulate the primary function of METs. For instance, enhancing flexibility pertains to a specific type of training that does not relate to the metabolic rate during activities. Tracking personal records is focused on individual progress over time, while determining nutritional needs addresses dietary aspects rather than exercise intensity metrics.