What is the difference between BMR and TDEE?

BMR is the calories burned at complete rest. TDEE adds the energy used for daily activity and exercise, so it is always higher than BMR.

BMR is the starting point for planning calories. Knowing it helps you set realistic targets for maintaining, losing or gaining weight.

Does BMR include exercise?

No. BMR covers energy used at complete rest. Use the Calorie Calculator to apply an activity factor and estimate total daily energy expenditure.

Health & Fitness

BMR Calculator

Calculate your basal metabolic rate (BMR) - the calories your body burns at rest.

Free browser toolRuns in your browserNo sign-up

Weight (kg)Height (cm)

AgeSex

1618kcal/day

Basal Metabolic Rate

Your BMR is the energy your body burns at complete rest. Multiply it by an activity factor to estimate your total daily calorie needs.

This tool is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.

About the BMR Calculator

Your basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the number of calories your body needs just to keep working at complete rest: breathing, circulation and basic cell function.

This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, one of the most accurate BMR formulas, based on your age, sex, height and weight. Multiply the result by an activity factor to estimate your full daily calorie needs.

Enter metric or imperial units and get an instant result, calculated privately in your browser.

Key features

Accurate Mifflin-St Jeor formula
Metric and imperial units
Instant result in kcal per day
Private, in-browser calculation

How to use

1Enter your weight and height.
2Enter your age and sex.
3Read your BMR in calories per day.

Examples

Mifflin-St Jeor estimate

Input: Male, age 30, 70 kg, 170 cm

Output: About 1,643 kcal/day

This is estimated resting energy use before exercise and normal daily activity are added.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between BMR and TDEE?: BMR is the calories burned at complete rest. TDEE adds the energy used for daily activity and exercise, so it is always higher than BMR.
Why does BMR matter?: BMR is the starting point for planning calories. Knowing it helps you set realistic targets for maintaining, losing or gaining weight.
Does BMR include exercise?: No. BMR covers energy used at complete rest. Use the Calorie Calculator to apply an activity factor and estimate total daily energy expenditure.

Health GuidesBMI and Calorie Estimates: How to Use Them ResponsiblyRead guide

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