NEAT

Sports abbreviation · Fitness and Exercise

NEAT
Stands forNon-exercise activity thermogenesis
CategoriesSports

NEAT stands for Non-exercise activity thermogenesis, a fitness and exercise abbreviation.

Calories burned through everyday movement outside deliberate exercise, such as walking, standing, fidgeting, housework and yard work. NEAT varies by hundreds of calories a day between people.

Example: Hitting 10,000 steps a day is an easy way to raise your NEAT.

Usage notes

The concept was developed by Mayo Clinic researcher James Levine around 1999. NEAT often drops unconsciously during dieting, one reason weight loss slows. It is part of TDEE alongside BMR, food digestion and exercise.

More fitness and exercise abbreviations

  • IIFYM – If it fits your macros
  • KB – Kettlebell
  • LBM – Lean body mass
  • LISS – Low-intensity steady state
  • MET – Metabolic equivalent of task
  • MHR – Maximum heart rate
  • OHP – Overhead press
  • PPL – Push/pull/legs
  • PT – Personal trainer
  • RDL – Romanian deadlift
  • RHR – Resting heart rate
  • RIR – Reps in reserve

See all 35 fitness and exercise abbreviations →