Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (EAT)
The caloric expenditure produced during purposeful sports, cardio sessions, and structured resistance training.
Clinical & Bioenergetic Overview
Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (EAT) represents the energy required by skeletal muscle contraction during deliberate physical conditioning. While critical for cardiovascular conditioning, insulin sensitivity, and lean muscle retention, EAT typically accounts for only 5% to 15% of total 24-hour energy expenditure in non-marathon athletes.
Mathematical Formula & Calculation
Real-World Worked Example
A 75 kg lifter performs a 60-minute weight training session (MET rating ~5.0). EAT = 60 × (5.0 × 3.5 × 75 / 200) ≈ 394 kcal burned during the session.
Why It Matters for Dieting
Resistance training creates an indispensable stimulus to retain lean muscle during an energy deficit, ensuring that lost weight is derived from adipose tissue rather than skeletal muscle.
Frequent Mistakes
Over-relying on high-intensity cardio to force weight loss. Excessive cardio can spike cortisol and appetite while suppressing spontaneous NEAT later in the day.
Explore Hybrid Deficit Options
Balance diet deficits with smart cardio for plateau-free fat loss.
Related Bioenergetic Terms
The total cumulative number of kilocalories your body burns over a 24-hour cycle across all metabolic components.
The energy expended for all spontaneous physical motion that is not structured athletic exercise or sleep.