How many calories on the treadmill?
ACSM metabolic equation — the gold standard
Medical Disclaimer: This tool provides general educational estimates. Always consult your prescribing physician or healthcare provider before making medication changes or interpreting results from population-based models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Walking at 3.5 mph with 5% incline burns about 40% more calories than flat. Incline is the easiest way to increase treadmill calorie burn.
Running burns more calories per minute. But incline walking at 3.5 mph, 12% grade burns nearly as much as jogging at 5 mph flat.
Treadmill displays overestimate by 15-42% according to research. The ACSM equation used here is more accurate.
Sources
- ACSM. Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription. 11th ed. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2021.
- Glass S, Dwyer GB. ACSM's Metabolic Calculations Handbook. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2007.
Methodology
Uses ACSM metabolic equations. Walking (below 4 mph): VO2 = 3.5 + 0.1S + 1.8SG. Running (4+ mph): VO2 = 3.5 + 0.2S + 0.9SG. Where S = speed in m/min and G = fractional grade. Calories = (VO2/1000) x weight(kg) x 5 x time(min).
The ACSM metabolic equation for treadmill: Walking VO2 = 3.5 + 0.1S + 1.8SG; Running VO2 = 3.5 + 0.2S + 0.9SG. A 165 lb person walking 3.5 mph flat for 30 min burns ~150 cal. Adding 5% incline increases to ~210 cal. Treadmill displays overestimate by 15-42%.
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