CSSD Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

Vigorous intensity activity is typically defined by its MET (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) value, which indicates the energy cost of physical activities. An activity that is categorized as vigorous intensity usually involves a MET value of 6 or greater.

This category includes activities when the heart rate is significantly elevated, breathing is labored, and the participant is working hard enough that conversation would be difficult. At 6 METs, individuals are engaging in activities such as running at a pace between 5 and 6 miles per hour, swimming laps vigorously, or doing high-impact aerobics.

The values below this threshold, such as 3 METs and 5 METs, represent moderate intensity activities rather than vigorous. Therefore, when identifying vigorous intensity activities, 6 METs is the correct example as it signifies a level of exertion consistent with this classification. The value of 10 METs also falls within vigorous activity but exceeds the minimum standard for this question, making 6 METs the most appropriate answer to represent this category of intensity.