A scenario, not a measurement
The factors 1.2, 1.375, 1.55, 1.725 and 1.9 are calculator assumptions, not factors validated by the original resting-energy study. Their labels are broad descriptions, not clinical classifications.
Look beyond workout frequency
Standing, commuting, walking and physical work matter too. People with the same gym frequency may have different overall expenditure. Compare adjacent scenarios instead of treating a selection as exact.
Avoid double-counting
The multiplier already represents a whole-day scenario. Adding workout calories may count some activity twice. This site does not measure individual exercise expenditure.
Compare activity scenarios
Each row uses the same resting estimate with another multiplier. These are alternatives, not extra calories to add.
| Activity scenario | Activity multiplier |
|---|---|
| Very little activity | × 1.2 |
| Light overall activity | × 1.375 |
| Moderate overall activity | × 1.55 |
| High overall activity | × 1.725 |
| Very high overall activity | × 1.9 |
These multipliers are illustrative assumptions, not measured activity or factors established by the original Mifflin study. Consider the whole day.
Sources
- Mifflin et al. (1990) — Resting energy equation ↗
- USDA — Dietary Reference Intake calculator ↗
- NIDDK — Body Weight Planner and eligibility ↗
Sources checked: