This calculator helps you estimate your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), which is the number of calories your body needs to perform basic life-sustaining functions at rest. Understanding your BMR is a crucial first step in managing your weight, whether your goal is to lose, gain, or maintain it. Your BMR accounts for a significant portion of your daily calorie expenditure, with physical activity being the other major factor.
Several factors influence your BMR, including your age, sex, weight, and height. Genetics also play a role, but these are the primary metrics used in common BMR formulas like the Harris-Benedict or Mifflin-St Jeor equations.
**Mifflin-St Jeor Equation (considered more accurate for most people):**
* **For Men:** BMR = (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) – (5 × age in years) + 5
* **For Women:** BMR = (10 × weight in kg) + (6.25 × height in cm) – (5 × age in years) – 161
**Harris-Benedict Equation (Original):**
* **For Men:** BMR = 66.5 + (13.75 × weight in kg) + (5.003 × height in cm) – (6.755 × age in years)
* **For Women:** BMR = 655.1 + (9.563 × weight in kg) + (1.850 × height in cm) – (4.676 × age in years)
This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation. Once you have your BMR, you can then estimate your Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE) by multiplying your BMR by an activity factor.