Resting Calories Burned Calculator

Harris-Benedict Equation:

\[ RMR = 10 \times Weight + 6.25 \times Height - 5 \times Age + s \] \[ (s = +5 \text{ male}, -161 \text{ female}) \]

Weight:

Height:

Age:

years

Gender:

Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR):

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1. What is the Harris-Benedict Equation?

The Harris-Benedict equation estimates resting metabolic rate (RMR) from weight, height, age, and gender. It calculates the number of calories your body burns at rest to maintain basic physiological functions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Harris-Benedict equation:

\[ RMR = 10 \times Weight + 6.25 \times Height - 5 \times Age + s \] \[ (s = +5 \text{ male}, -161 \text{ female}) \]

Where:

\( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
\( Height \) — Height in centimeters (cm)
\( Age \) — Age in years
\( s \) — Sex adjustment factor (+5 for males, -161 for females)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the energy required to maintain basic body functions at complete rest, including breathing, circulation, and cell production.

3. Importance of RMR Calculation

Details: Knowing your RMR is essential for weight management, creating personalized diet plans, and understanding your body's basic energy needs. It serves as the foundation for calculating total daily energy expenditure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms, height in centimeters, age in years, and select gender. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0, age between 1-120). For best accuracy, measure weight and height in the morning.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is 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).

Q2: How accurate is the Harris-Benedict equation?
A: It provides a good estimate for most people but may be less accurate for very muscular individuals, athletes, or those with significantly different body compositions.

Q3: What factors can affect RMR?
A: Muscle mass, age, gender, genetics, hormonal status, body temperature, and environmental factors can all influence resting metabolic rate.

Q4: How can I increase my RMR?
A: Building muscle through strength training, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining proper nutrition can help increase your resting metabolic rate.

Q5: Should I use RMR for weight loss planning?
A: Yes, RMR provides the baseline for calculating your total daily energy needs. For weight loss, create a calorie deficit based on your RMR plus activity level.