What is BMR?
Basal metabolic rate is the energy your body needs at rest to support breathing, circulation and other essential functions. The calculation here is a prediction of resting energy expenditure, not a laboratory measurement. It is not a recommendation to eat exactly that many calories.
BMR formula in kg and cm
MyCalcPlanet uses the Mifflin–St Jeor prediction equation, with weight in kilograms, height in centimetres and age in years:
- Male coefficient: 10 × weight + 6.25 × height − 5 × age + 5
- Female coefficient: 10 × weight + 6.25 × height − 5 × age − 161
For example, using the male coefficient at age 30, weight 80 kg and height 180 cm: 800 + 1125 − 150 + 5 = 1,780 kcal/day. Actual expenditure may differ from the prediction.
For US units, enter weight in pounds and height in inches (not separate feet and inches). The calculator converts these to kilograms and centimetres before using the equation.
BMR vs TDEE: activity makes the difference
TDEE means total daily energy expenditure. Unlike resting BMR, TDEE estimates activity-related energy use as well. This tool multiplies predicted BMR by the selected activity factor. For example, 1,780 × 1.2 ≈ 2,136 kcal/day for a sedentary setting. Other activity options represent progressively higher daily movement.
A desk job or night-shift schedule alone does not determine your activity factor; choose based on your full-day movement. These multipliers are estimates, not measured personal maintenance calories.
How do different BMR equations compare?
The displayed result specifically uses Mifflin–St Jeor. The revised Harris–Benedict equation uses other coefficients, while Katch–McArdle estimates resting energy expenditure from lean mass and needs a body-fat input. Those alternative equations are not calculated by this tool. For information about a separate waist-and-neck method, visit the Body Fat Calculator.
Interpret your resting-calorie estimate
Resting energy estimates can vary with body composition, age, health, measurement error and individual metabolism. This tool is intended for general adult information, not for children, pregnancy, breastfeeding or clinical nutrition planning. Do not use BMR by itself to set an aggressive calorie restriction.
Research: Mifflin and colleagues, original resting energy prediction equation (1990).
Frequently asked questions
Does BMR include exercise or walking?
No. BMR estimates energy at rest. The activity-adjusted TDEE estimate is separate.
Can I use BMR in pounds and inches?
Yes. Select US units and enter weight in pounds and height in inches.
Is BMR the same as daily calorie intake?
No. Your total daily energy use normally includes movement and other factors beyond resting BMR.
What activity factor does sedentary use?
This tool uses a multiplier of 1.2 for the sedentary activity option.
Does working night shifts change the formula?
No. Shift timing is not an input to Mifflin–St Jeor; total activity can still vary.
Can I calculate Katch–McArdle here?
No. The calculator currently uses Mifflin–St Jeor; Katch–McArdle requires lean-body-mass information.
Is the BMR result medically exact?
No. It is a statistical estimate. A professional measurement may be appropriate for clinical decisions.
Is this a weight-loss calorie prescription?
No. Seek qualified advice for individualized nutrition or medical questions.