Using the TDEE Calculator
The resting estimate uses weight, height, age and the sex category specified by the equation. The activity factor then scales that result to a daily maintenance estimate. Choose the factor with your overall routine in mind; a single demanding workout may not represent the rest of the week.
Worked example
Use the example inputs below to reproduce this result. These are the form's starting values, not recommended targets. Changing your inputs updates your result above; this worked example stays fixed for comparison. Results are rounded for display.
Example inputs
- Sex used by the equation
- Male
- Weight (kg)
- 70
- Height (cm)
- 175
- Age (years)
- 30
- Activity factor
- 1.2 — Sedentary
Example result
- Resting estimate (kcal/day)
- 1,648.75
- Maintenance estimate (kcal/day)
- 1,978.5
Method and assumptions
Mifflin–St Jeor resting energy equation multiplied by an activity factor. Estimates for adults; not for pregnancy, children or individualized medical nutrition.
Reference: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov — method and further reading
Distinguish an estimate from a measurement
Energy equations use population-based relationships and activity assumptions to estimate expenditure. They do not measure an individual's metabolism or the exact work performed. Keep the time period and whether the result includes resting energy clear when comparing numbers. Apparent precision in the output should not be confused with precision in the underlying estimate.
Common question
Is resting energy the same as maintenance energy?
No. Resting energy estimates the energy used at rest. Maintenance energy adds an activity allowance through a multiplier. Both are estimates, and the multiplier cannot capture every difference in movement, training, occupation or individual physiology.
Guide updated .