resting metabolic rate testing

Question: I saw a trainer post something in the club about resting metabolic rate testing. What is this, and is it worth it?

Answer:  Resting metabolic rate (RMR) testing is something that’s becoming much more common, and for good reason. Your resting metabolic rate is essentially the number of calories needed to maintain basic bodily functions, and represents the approximate number of calories you would burn if you laid in bed for 24 hours doing nothing. When someone is trying to reach a specific weight goal, they often want to pinpoint (as accurately as possible) how many calories they need to reach that goal. Knowing your RMR is the first step in that process, and obtaining a measured RMR is more accurate than using a standard equation. Your metabolic rate is determined by a breath test, which measures your oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production. These values can be directly linked to caloric expenditure. Keep in mind, once you know your RMR, you also have to determine how many calories you burn through daily activity and the digestion of food, and also factor in a surplus or deficit if you want to gain or lose weight. A personal trainer can help you calculate your total caloric expenditure, which takes into account all of these variables. Then, you can then match this number with your dietary intake in order to reach your goals. This is what calorie balance is all about. Give it a try and see what you think!