BMR calculator
Enter your age, sex, height and weight. See the calories your body uses at rest.
The equation
This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation (Mifflin et al., 1990), with weight in kilograms, height in centimeters and age in years:
- Men: BMR = 10 x weight + 6.25 x height - 5 x age + 5
- Women: BMR = 10 x weight + 6.25 x height - 5 x age - 161
Example: a 35-year-old man, 5 ft 10 in (177.8 cm) and 180 lb (81.6 kg): 10 x 81.6 + 6.25 x 177.8 - 5 x 35 + 5 = 1,758 calories a day.
| Weight | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|
| 130 lb | 1,349 | 1,515 |
| 150 lb | 1,440 | 1,606 |
| 170 lb | 1,530 | 1,696 |
| 190 lb | 1,621 | 1,787 |
| 210 lb | 1,712 | 1,878 |
What affects BMR
Body size is the biggest factor. Larger bodies use more energy, and so do bodies with more muscle. BMR tends to drop with age. The equation does not know your body composition, so two people with the same numbers can differ.
BMR is not what you eat
BMR is only the energy for staying alive at rest. Daily activity adds to it. For your full daily need, use the TDEE calculator.
These calculators are for healthy adults. They are not for children, teens, people who are pregnant or nursing, or anyone managing a medical condition or an eating disorder. Talk to a doctor or registered dietitian about your own needs.
Questions people ask
What is BMR?
Basal metabolic rate is the energy your body uses at rest in a day, for breathing, circulation and basic functions.
Which BMR formula is used?
The Mifflin-St Jeor equation. Some calculators use the Harris-Benedict or Katch-McArdle equations, which give different numbers.
Should I eat my BMR?
No. BMR is a floor for your needs, not a target. Most people need more once daily movement is included.
How do I raise my BMR?
Gaining muscle raises it a little. Large changes are not realistic. Focus on overall habits.