Purpose and steps
Uses lean body mass in the Cunningham resting-energy estimate, then applies an activity multiplier to estimate TDEE. Activity multipliers add substantial individual uncertainty.
- Choose units and use the pre-pregnancy, resting or current measurements requested by the tool; keep observation dates consistent.
- Prepare Weight, Body fat percentage, Daily activity level. Defaults demonstrate the model rather than your personal circumstances.
- Check the headline result and its components. A key interpretation for this tool is: Treat TDEE as a starting intake estimate.
- Compare the baseline with a changed scenario: Compare predicted intake with two to four weeks of body-weight and training trends.
Input reference and units
These values reproduce the model’s demonstration. Replace them with your own records or measurements; they are not recommended targets.
On a small screen, swipe the table horizontally to see all columns.
| Parameter | Demonstration value | How to enter it |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 70 kg | Use the definition shown in the field label; keep this assumption consistent when comparing scenarios. |
| Body fat percentage | 15 % | Enter a percentage such as 6.5, not 0.065. The equation converts it to a decimal. |
| Daily activity level | Moderately active (3–5 days/week) | Use the definition shown in the field label; keep this assumption consistent when comparing scenarios. |
Model-specific method
How this calculator produces its result
Lean mass = weight × (1 − body-fat fraction). Cunningham RMR = 500 + 22 × lean mass in kg. TDEE = RMR × activity factor.
Empirical equations are fitted estimates
A fitted formula summarizes a relationship observed in a study population. Coefficients such as calories per kilogram are not universal laws. Use the prescribed units, population and inputs; a model derived from adults may be unsuitable for children or pregnancy.
Averaging several formula outputs summarizes their center but does not remove their shared limitations. Likewise, showing a result to one decimal place does not mean the real-world quantity is known to that precision. Compare estimates with observations and discuss health decisions with qualified care staff.
Linear model: y = a + b₁x₁ + b₂x₂ + … Arithmetic mean = sum of estimates / number of estimates Prediction error ≠ display-rounding error
- a: fitted intercept
- b: fitted coefficient with its own unit
- x: measured input in the equation’s required unit
- Prediction: estimate within the model’s intended population
Worked example
At 70 kg and 15% body fat, lean mass is 59.5 kg and estimated RMR is 1,809 kcal/day. At a 1.55 activity factor, TDEE is about 2,804 kcal/day.
Reproduce the default scenario
This is a separate example, calculated using the exact engine on the tool page and the defaults in the input reference above. Health examples use metric units. Displayed rounding may differ from intermediate precision.
- TDEE
- 2,804 kcal/day
- Estimated resting expenditure
- 1,809 kcal/day
- Lean body mass
- 59.5 kg
- Activity multiplier
- 1.550
Reading results without overstating them
- Treat TDEE as a starting intake estimate.
- Compare predicted intake with two to four weeks of body-weight and training trends.
Assumptions and exclusions
- Body-fat measurement error carries directly into the estimate.
- Activity factors cannot capture every training block, job, or recovery difference.
Sources and content notes
Toolify describes the implemented algorithm and its assumptions. Sources below support the topic or applicable rules; they do not endorse this calculator. Examples are illustrative, and published rules take precedence over simplified estimates.
Report a formula, example or translation issue through our contact page. Include the tool name, inputs and expected result so it can be reproduced. Contact Toolify