Health & Fitness · Glossary
What is BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate)?
Quick definition
The number of calories your body burns at complete rest, performing basic functions like breathing and circulation.
Full explanation
BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is the minimum energy required to keep your body functioning at rest — breathing, circulation, cell production. It accounts for 60–70% of total daily calories for sedentary people. BMR depends on age, sex, weight, and height. The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is the most accurate (within ~10% of measured values): Men: 10×weight + 6.25×height − 5×age + 5; Women: 10×weight + 6.25×height − 5×age − 161. BMR is the floor — actual daily burn (TDEE) is higher because it includes activity. BMR is used in clinical nutrition and for planning therapeutic diets.
Related calculators
Calculators that use or explain BMR.
Related terms
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Last reviewed: June 15, 2026 • Category: Health & Fitness