Health & FitnessReviewed Methodology
BMR Calculator
A BMR calculator helps you estimate basal metabolic rate by using age, sex, height, and weight with a standard prediction formula.
Health & FitnessReviewed by Editorial Health Review
Quick answer
BMR estimates calories your body uses at complete rest.
What this tells you
- •BMR estimates calories your body uses at complete rest.
- •This tool uses the Mifflin-St Jeor formula.
- •BMR is an estimate, not a diagnosis or medical test.
How to Use
- 1Enter sex, age, weight, and height.
- 2Calculate to view estimated BMR in kcal/day.
- 3Use BMR as a baseline before applying activity multipliers.
How It Works
Formula
Male: BMR = 10W + 6.25H - 5A + 5
Female: BMR = 10W + 6.25H - 5A - 161W is weight in kilograms, H is height in centimeters, and A is age in years using Mifflin-St Jeor assumptions.
Calculation note: values are processed in the order shown above, using the current input units.
Worked Examples
Estimated BMR example
SexFemale
Age32
Weight68 kg
Height165 cm
ResultShows estimated resting calorie needs per day
BMR provides a baseline estimate before exercise and daily activity are added.
Common mistakes
- Treating BMR as exact daily calorie target
- Using outdated body measurements
- Ignoring medical factors that can affect metabolism
Limitations
This estimate is based on population-level formulas and cannot capture individual metabolic conditions, medications, hormonal factors, or clinical diagnoses.
Frequently Asked Questions
BMR means basal metabolic rate, which is the estimated energy your body uses at rest.
No. BMR is a baseline. Total daily needs are higher once activity is included.
No. It provides an estimate only and is not a diagnostic instrument.