What is BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate)?

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to maintain basic physiological functions while at rest. This includes breathing, circulation, cell production, nutrient processing, and protein synthesis.

BMR represents approximately 60-75% of your total daily energy expenditure and is crucial for understanding your daily caloric needs for weight maintenance, loss, or gain.

🔬 Mifflin-St Jeor Equation

Our calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, considered the most accurate formula:

Men: BMR = (10 × weight) + (6.25 × height) - (5 × age) + 5

Women: BMR = (10 × weight) + (6.25 × height) - (5 × age) - 161

⚡ TDEE Calculation

Total Daily Energy Expenditure multiplies BMR by activity factors:

Sedentary: BMR × 1.2
Light Activity: BMR × 1.375
Moderate Activity: BMR × 1.55
Active: BMR × 1.725
Very Active: BMR × 1.9

How to Use the BMR Calculator

Enter your weight - Use kilograms (metric) or pounds (imperial)
Input your height - Use centimeters (metric) or inches (imperial)
Specify your age - Enter your current age in years
Select your gender - Male or female (affects the calculation formula)
Choose activity level - Select the option that best describes your lifestyle
View results - See your BMR and TDEE calculated instantly

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Weight Loss

Eat 500-750 calories below your TDEE for 1-1.5 lbs/week loss

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Maintenance

Eat calories equal to your TDEE to maintain current weight

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Weight Gain

Eat 300-500 calories above your TDEE for healthy weight gain

Factors Affecting BMR

Increases BMR:

• Higher muscle mass
• Younger age
• Male gender
• Taller height
• Higher body weight
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding

Decreases BMR:

• Lower muscle mass
• Older age
• Calorie restriction
• Certain medications
• Thyroid disorders
• Genetics

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BMR the same as RMR?

BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) and RMR (Resting Metabolic Rate) are similar but not identical. BMR is measured under strict conditions, while RMR is more practical and typically 10-20% higher.

How accurate is the Mifflin-St Jeor equation?

The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is considered the most accurate predictive equation, with about 90% accuracy for healthy individuals. However, individual variations can occur due to genetics, body composition, and health conditions.

Should I eat exactly my BMR calories?

No, you should eat according to your TDEE, not BMR. BMR only accounts for basic functions, while TDEE includes all daily activities. Eating only BMR calories would be too restrictive for most people.

BMR Calculator

BMR Calculator

1,674 kcal/day

2,595 kcal/day