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 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:
Formula | Best For | Age Range |
---|---|---|
Mifflin-St Jeor | General adult population, high accuracy | 18–80 |
Harris-Benedict | Older but still referenced; less accurate for modern populations | 18–80 |
Katch-McArdle | People who know their body fat % | 18–60 |
WHO | Children and teens; growth-based model | 3–18 |
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).