1. What is the Hiking Calorie Calculator?

The Hiking Calorie Calculator estimates the number of calories burned during hiking based on duration, intensity (MET value), and body weight. It's specifically designed for women's physiology.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard calorie expenditure formula:

Where:

• \( Time \) — Duration of activity in hours
• \( MET \) — Metabolic Equivalent of Task (hiking typically 4-7 MET)
• \( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms

Explanation: The formula accounts for the energy expenditure relative to body weight and activity intensity over time.

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Understanding calorie expenditure helps with weight management, fitness planning, and nutrition requirements for outdoor activities.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter time in hours (e.g., 1.5 for 1 hour 30 minutes), typical MET values for hiking range from 4-7 depending on terrain and pack weight, and your current weight in kg.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical MET values for hiking?
A: Easy hiking: 4-5 MET, moderate hiking: 5-6 MET, strenuous hiking with pack: 6-7+ MET.

Q2: Why is this calculator specific to women?
A: Women typically have different body composition and metabolic rates than men, affecting calorie expenditure.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate, but individual factors like fitness level, terrain, and exact effort can affect actual calories burned.

Q4: Should I eat all the calories I burn during hiking?
A: For short hikes, no. For long hikes (4+ hours), you should replenish some calories to maintain energy.

Q5: Does elevation gain affect calorie burn?
A: Yes, significant elevation gain increases intensity and calorie burn. Consider using a higher MET value for hilly terrain.