A pacing system which determines a dual indicated rate (DIR) corresponding to a desired pacing rate of the heart of the patient by selecting the maximum between an activity indicated rate (AIR) and a metabolic indicated rate (MIR). The activity indicated rate is a pacing rate that is determined based upon a well-known acceleration-based sensor. The metabolic indicated rate is a desired pacing rate of the heart as determined based upon a well-known metabolic sensor, such as a minute ventilation sensor. Determining the dual indicated rate by selecting between the two rates provided by these two sensors results in the advantageous use of the activity indicated rate during periods of low-level and brisk activity and the use of the metabolic indicated rate during periods of high exertion.