Estimate calories burned cycling from power output or speed.
Because human cycling efficiency sits near 24 per cent and a calorie is 4.184 kilojoules, the two nearly cancel: kilojoules of work and kilocalories burned are approximately the same number. That coincidence is why power meters can report either unit almost interchangeably, which is unique to cycling among endurance sports.
Cycling Calories
Energy input = mechanical work ÷ metabolic efficiency, converted to calories
These figures are estimates based on population-average formulas and are intended for training and recreational planning only. They are not medical advice. Consult a qualified health professional before starting or changing an exercise programme, particularly if you have an existing medical condition.
Energy input = mechanical work ÷ metabolic efficiency, converted to calories Because human cycling efficiency sits near 24 per cent and a calorie is 4.184 kilojoules, the two nearly cancel: kilojoules of work and kilocalories burned are approximately the same number.
That coincidence is why power meters can report either unit almost interchangeably, which is unique to cycling among endurance sports.
This calculator takes 4 inputs: Average power, Duration, Metabolic efficiency, Body weight. The pre-filled defaults are a realistic starting point — replace them with figures from your own environment for a result you can act on.