BMR Calculator - Calculate Your Basal Metabolic Rate
Understanding Your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)
Your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the total number of calories your body needs to maintain basic life-sustaining functions—including heart rate, brain function, breathing, cell repair, and temperature regulation—while at total rest.
BMR accounts for approximately 60% to 75% of your total daily calorie expenditure. Understanding this figure is essential whether your health goal is weight loss, muscle gain, or maintenance.
| Formula Name | Primary Use Case | Accuracy Level |
|---|---|---|
| Mifflin-St Jeor | General population, standard clinical use | Highest (Standard) |
| Harris-Benedict | Revised classic clinical equation | High |
| Katch-McArdle | Athletes & individuals with known Body Fat % | Highest (Personalized) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between BMR and TDEE?
BMR measures calorie burn at 100% rest. TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) multiplies your BMR by an activity factor (1.2 to 1.9) to account for walking, working, exercising, and eating.
2. Should I eat fewer calories than my BMR?
It is strongly advised not to consume fewer calories than your calculated BMR for extended periods. Doing so can slow your metabolic rate, lead to muscle mass loss, and cause nutritional deficiencies.
3. How can I increase my BMR?
The most effective way to raise your BMR is by increasing muscle mass through strength training, as muscle tissue burns significantly more calories at rest than fat tissue.