What MET hours of physical activity weekly provides substantial benefits?

The correct answer is based on the understanding of MET hours and their relationship to physical activity guidelines. MET, which stands for Metabolic Equivalent of Task, is a measure used to quantify the amount of energy expended during physical activities. One MET is defined as the energy expenditure for sitting quietly, which is approximately 3.5 mL of oxygen consumed per kilogram of body weight per minute.

Substantial health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, better weight management, and enhanced overall physical wellness, are generally associated with engaging in physical activities that amount to 10-20 MET hours per week. This range aligns with public health recommendations that suggest a minimum level of weekly activity for adults to maintain health.

Activities that enhance these MET hours can include moderate to vigorous-intensity exercises, such as brisk walking, running, cycling, or swimming. For instance, 10 MET hours can be achieved by participating in moderate-intensity activities for around 150 minutes per week, while 20 MET hours would correspond to a greater volume or intensity of activity.

In contrast, the other ranges exceed the 10-20 MET hours threshold that is considered necessary for substantial benefits. While higher levels of physical activity may lead to additional health benefits, the core substantial benefits start to