1. What is the Bruce Protocol MET Equation?

The Bruce Protocol MET equation estimates metabolic equivalents (METs) for 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 Bruce Protocol equation:

Where:

• \( Stage \) — Bruce Protocol stage number (1-7)
• 1.7 — Baseline MET value
• 2.8 — MET increment per stage

Explanation: The equation provides an estimate of exercise intensity in METs for each stage of the Bruce Protocol.

3. Importance of MET Calculation

Details: MET values help quantify exercise intensity, guide exercise prescription, and assess cardiovascular fitness during stress testing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the Bruce Protocol stage number (1-7). The calculator will estimate the corresponding MET value.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the Bruce Protocol?
A: A standardized treadmill test that increases in speed and incline every 3 minutes, commonly used for cardiac stress testing.

Q2: What are typical MET values for each stage?
A: Stage 1 ≈ 4.5 METs, Stage 2 ≈ 7.3 METs, Stage 3 ≈ 10.1 METs, increasing by ~2.8 METs per stage.

Q3: How accurate is this estimation?
A: This provides a general estimate; actual METs may vary based on individual factors like fitness level and body composition.

Q4: What is a MET?
A: A metabolic equivalent (MET) is the ratio of working metabolic rate to resting metabolic rate (1 MET = resting oxygen consumption).

Q5: What's the maximum stage in Bruce Protocol?
A: The test has 7 stages, each lasting 3 minutes, with increasing speed and incline until volitional exhaustion.