Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) Equation:
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Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) represents the number of calories your body burns at complete rest to maintain basic physiological functions such as breathing, circulation, and cell production. It accounts for 60-75% of total daily energy expenditure.
The calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation is considered one of the most accurate for estimating RMR in healthy individuals and accounts for differences in body composition between genders.
Details: Knowing your RMR is essential for weight management, creating effective diet plans, and understanding your body's energy needs. It serves as the foundation for calculating total daily energy expenditure when combined with physical activity levels.
Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in centimeters, age in years, and select gender. For accurate results, use recent measurements and ensure all values are valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 1-120).
Q1: What's the difference between RMR and BMR?
A: RMR (Resting Metabolic Rate) and BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) are often used interchangeably, but BMR is measured under stricter conditions (complete rest, fasting, thermoneutral environment), while RMR is slightly higher and more practical for everyday use.
Q2: How accurate is this RMR calculation?
A: The Mifflin-St Jeor equation is about 90% accurate for most healthy adults. For more precise measurement, laboratory methods like indirect calorimetry are recommended.
Q3: What factors affect RMR?
A: Age, gender, body composition (muscle mass), genetics, hormone levels, and environmental temperature all influence RMR. Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat tissue.
Q4: How can I increase my RMR?
A: Building muscle through strength training, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and eating enough protein can help increase your resting metabolic rate.
Q5: How often does RMR change?
A: RMR decreases by about 1-2% per decade after age 20 due to loss of muscle mass. Significant weight changes, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions can also alter RMR.