BMR Calculator

Last updated: Health Calculators

BMR Calculator

About This Calculator

This calculator estimates your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) using the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation. BMR represents the calories your body burns at rest to maintain vital functions such as breathing, circulation, and cell production.

How It Works

The equation uses your gender, age, weight, and height to estimate BMR. It is suitable for healthy adults.

For Women: BMR = 10 × weight (kg) + 6.25 × height (cm) 5 × age (years) 161
For Men: BMR = 10 × weight (kg) + 6.25 × height (cm) 5 × age (years) + 5

Comparing BMR Equations

Here is a summary of common BMR formulas and who they are best suited for:

FormulaBest ForAge Range
Mifflin-St JeorGeneral adult population, high accuracy18–80
Harris-BenedictOlder but still referenced; less accurate for modern populations18–80
Katch-McArdlePeople who know their body fat %18–60
WHOChildren and teens; growth-based model3–18

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BMR?

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the amount of energy your body uses at rest to support basic life functions.

Why is gender used in BMR?

Men generally have more lean muscle mass, which leads to a higher metabolic rate compared to women.

Is this estimate enough for total calories needed?

No. BMR only covers resting needs. To calculate total daily needs, you must factor in activity level (TDEE).