What is the Difference Between BMR and RMR?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) and RMR (Resting Metabolic Rate) lies in the methods used to calculate them and the slight variations in their definitions. Both BMR and RMR represent the number of calories burned by the body at rest, but they are calculated using different formulas and may be affected by different factors.
BMR is the number of calories burned by the body when it is completely at rest, such as during sleep. It is calculated using formulas that take into account factors like age, gender, weight, and height. On the other hand, RMR is the number of calories burned by the body when it is at rest but not actively sleeping. It is typically calculated using the Harris-Benedict equation, which takes into account age, gender, weight, and height.
While BMR and RMR are similar in concept and both measure the calories burned by the body at rest, the methods used to calculate them and the slight differences in their definitions can lead to slightly different results. However, both values can be used to provide insights into an individual's metabolism and energy expenditure when at rest, and can be helpful for those looking to lose or gain weight, improve athletic performance, or better understand their body's energy needs.
Comparative Table: BMR vs RMR
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) are both measures of the energy expended by the body at rest. However, there are some differences between the two:
| Characteristic | BMR | RMR |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement Conditions | Measured after an overnight fast in a research facility or metabolic ward, with limited movement prior to measurement | Measured following an overnight fast, but individuals usually slept at home and drove to the facility after waking, resulting in slightly more activity before measurement |
| Activity Level | Represents the calories burned at complete rest, including basic body functions | Accounts for additional low-effort daily activities on top of basic body functions, such as eating, walking for short periods, using the bathroom, consuming caffeine, sweating, or shivering |
| Accuracy | BMR is considered more accurate for measuring metabolism at complete rest | RMR is considered a better representation of the calories burned in a typical day, including low-level activities |
| Usage | BMR can help tailor exercise and diet plans to meet individual needs | RMR can help with weight management, as it's closer to the total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) |
In practice, the differences between BMR and RMR are minimal, and both can be useful tools for understanding and improving one's health.
- BMR vs TDEE
- Metabolism vs Metabolic Rate
- Calories vs Energy
- Calories vs Fat Calories
- BMI vs Body Fat
- Fast vs Slow Metabolism
- Net Calorific Value vs Gross Calorific Value
- BTU vs Watts
- Hypothermia vs Hyperthermia
- Basal Body Temperature vs Regular Temperature
- Homeostasis vs Metabolism
- RQ vs RER
- RSP vs RRSP
- KJ vs KCal
- Calories vs Kilojoules
- Birth Rate vs Death Rate
- RMS vs Average
- CPI vs RPI
- REM AND NREM