1. What is the Bruce Protocol METs Equation?

The Bruce Protocol METs equation estimates metabolic equivalents (METs) achieved during each stage of the Bruce treadmill test. This standardized test is commonly used to assess cardiovascular fitness and exercise capacity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mayo Bruce METs equation:

Where:

• \( stage \) — The stage achieved during the Bruce protocol test (1-7)
• \( 1.7 \) — Multiplier for each stage
• \( 1.4 \) — Baseline constant

Explanation: The equation provides a linear estimate of METs achieved based on the test stage completed.

3. Importance of METs Calculation

Details: METs are crucial for assessing exercise capacity, prescribing exercise intensity, and evaluating cardiovascular health. Higher METs values indicate better fitness levels.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the stage number (1-7) achieved during the Bruce protocol test. The calculator will estimate the corresponding METs value.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Bruce protocol test?
A: A standardized treadmill test that increases in speed and incline every 3 minutes to assess cardiovascular fitness.

Q2: What are typical METs values for each stage?
A: Stage 1 ≈ 3.1 METs, Stage 2 ≈ 4.8 METs, Stage 3 ≈ 6.5 METs, increasing by ~1.7 METs per stage.

Q3: How is this used clinically?
A: Helps assess functional capacity, guide exercise prescriptions, and evaluate cardiac rehabilitation progress.

Q4: What's a good METs score?
A: Generally, >10 METs is excellent for most adults, though norms vary by age and gender.

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: Provides estimates only - actual METs may vary based on individual factors like weight and efficiency.