Approximate energy expenditure for activity levels

activity category energy as multiple of Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) kilocalories

per

minute

resting

(sleeping, reclining) REE × 1.0 1-1.2

very light

(driving, typing, cooking) REE × 1.5 up to 2.5

light

(walking on a level surface at 4 to 5 km/hr

【2.5 to 3 mph】, golf, table tennis) REE × 2.5 2.5-4.9

moderate

(walking 5.5 to 6.5 km/hr 【3.5 to 4 mph】, carrying

a load, cycling, tennis, skiing, dancing) REE × 5.0 5.0-7.4

heavy

(walking uphill with a load, basketball, climbing, football, soccer) REE × 7.0 7.5-12.0

Source: National Academy of Sciences, Recommended Dietary Allowances, 10th ed. (1989).