BMR

Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the energy requirement of the human body. It refers to the minimum amount of energy or calories that an individual needs to maintain basic bodily functions while at rest. These functions include breathing, circulating blood, regulating body temperature, and supporting cellular activity.

BMR is influenced by various factors, including age, gender, body composition, and genetics. Generally, men tend to have a higher BMR than women due to their higher muscle mass and overall larger body size. Age also plays a role, as BMR typically decreases with age, primarily due to a decline in muscle mass and a decrease in physical activity levels.

Body composition, specifically the ratio of muscle to fat, is another important determinant of BMR. Muscle tissue is more metabolically active than fat tissue, meaning it requires more energy to maintain. Therefore, individuals with a higher proportion of lean muscle mass tend to have a higher BMR.

Understanding one's BMR is crucial for managing body weight. If calorie intake exceeds the BMR, the excess energy is stored as fat, leading to weight gain. Conversely, if calorie intake falls below the BMR, the body starts utilizing stored fat for energy, resulting in weight loss.

By knowing their BMR, individuals can tailor their diet and exercise plans to achieve their desired weight goals. It serves as a baseline for determining daily caloric needs and guides the creation of a sustainable and effective weight management strategy.

Now that you know all of this, you know why the TDEE calculator included with each training log provided by The Lift League asks you about your age and body fat. This is also why there are separate calculators for men and women. So get yourself a set of cheap body fat calipers and weird with a friend.