Basal Metabolic Rate
Definition
The number of calories your body burns at complete rest to maintain essential life functions like breathing, circulation, and cell production over a 24-hour period.
Formula
Mifflin-St Jeor: Men = 10W + 6.25H - 5A + 5; Women = 10W + 6.25H - 5A - 161Basal metabolic rate represents the minimum energy expenditure required to keep the body functioning at rest in a neutrally temperate environment, without the digestive system being active. It accounts for 60 to 75 percent of total daily calorie expenditure for most sedentary individuals, making it the single largest component of energy needs.
BMR is influenced by several factors including age, sex, body composition, genetics, and hormonal status. Muscle tissue burns significantly more calories at rest than fat tissue, which is why individuals with more lean muscle mass tend to have higher BMRs. BMR typically decreases with age as muscle mass naturally declines, which is one reason weight management becomes more challenging over time.
Two widely used formulas for estimating BMR are the Harris-Benedict equation and the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, with the latter considered more accurate for modern populations. Knowing your BMR is the foundation for calculating total daily energy expenditure and establishing appropriate caloric targets for weight loss, maintenance, or muscle gain.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Related Calculators
TDEE Calculator
Calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure based on BMR, activity level, and body composition
Calorie Calculator
Calculate daily calories (TDEE/BMR) with macro breakdowns for your goals
Metabolism Calculator (BMR/TDEE)
Calculate your Basal Metabolic Rate and Total Daily Energy Expenditure
Related Terms
BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate)
healthThe number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions at complete rest, such as breathing, circulation, and cell production.
TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure)
healthThe total number of calories your body burns in a day, combining basal metabolic rate, physical activity, and the thermic effect of food.
Metabolic Rate
healthThe speed at which your body burns calories for energy, encompassing basal metabolic rate plus the energy used for activity and digestion.
Calorie
healthA unit of energy used to measure the energy content of food and beverages and the energy expenditure of physical activities.
Related Articles
How to Calculate BMI: Formula, Chart & What It Means
Learn how to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) with the simple formula. Understand what your BMI means, its limitations, and when to use other health metrics.
How to Calculate Calories for Weight Loss: TDEE Guide
Learn how to calculate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) and create a calorie deficit for healthy weight loss. Includes formulas, activity multipliers, and a free calculator.
How to Calculate Body Fat Percentage: Methods Compared
Learn 5 different methods to calculate body fat percentage, from the free US Navy method to DEXA scans. Understand what your body fat percentage means for health.
How to Calculate Your Macros for Weight Loss or Muscle Gain
Step-by-step guide to calculating your macronutrient needs. Learn how to set protein, carbs, and fat targets for weight loss, maintenance, or muscle building.