Your Basal Metabolic Rate Explained
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body burns at complete rest just to keep essential functions going — breathing, circulation, and cell production. It represents the minimum energy your body needs each day.
This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, considered one of the most accurate formulas for estimating BMR. Knowing your BMR is the first step to planning weight loss or gain, since your total daily needs build on top of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BMR and TDEE?
BMR is the calories burned at rest. TDEE (Total Daily Energy Expenditure) is your BMR multiplied by an activity factor — the total calories you burn in a day including movement and exercise.
How can I use my BMR?
Your BMR helps you set calorie targets. To lose weight, you eat below your total daily needs; to gain, you eat above. Use our Calorie Calculator to find those totals.