BMR Calculator

What is BMR?

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions like breathing, circulation, cell production, and nutrient processing. It represents the minimum energy your body requires to function at rest.

BMR typically accounts for 60-75% of your total daily calorie expenditure. Factors that affect BMR include age, gender, body size, body composition, and genetics.

BMR vs TDEE

While BMR measures calories burned at complete rest, TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) includes all activities throughout the day. Your TDEE is always higher than your BMR because it factors in physical activity and digestion.

For diet planning, use your TDEE rather than BMR. Use our TDEE Calculator to find your total daily calorie needs.

BMR Formulas Compared

This calculator provides results from three formulas:

• Mifflin-St Jeor (recommended): The most accurate formula for most people, developed in 1990.
• Harris-Benedict (revised): Originally from 1919, revised in 1984. Slightly less accurate but widely used.
• Katch-McArdle: Uses lean body mass, making it more accurate for people who know their body fat percentage.

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