BMR vs TDEE: What's the Difference? (Australia)
BMR and TDEE both estimate how many calories you burn — but they answer very different questions. Use BMR to know your absolute floor; use TDEE to set real-world calorie targets.
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | BMR | TDEE |
|---|---|---|
| What it measures | Calories at complete rest | Calories from rest + all activity |
| Typical value (adult) | 1,400–1,800 kcal | 1,800–3,200 kcal |
| Activity included? | No | Yes (multiplier 1.2–1.9) |
| Use for diet planning? | Never eat below it | Yes — subtract 15–25% for fat loss |
| Formula | Mifflin–St Jeor | BMR × activity multiplier |
Comparison Verdict
Always plan your calorie deficit or surplus from TDEE, not BMR. BMR is your floor — eating below it for long periods slows metabolism.