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Resting Energy Expenditure information and pre-test requirements

Home / About / Services and facilities / Body Composition Laboratory / Body Fat and Calorie Testing for Adults

What is REE?

  • REE measures the amount of energy (that is, calories) your body uses while in a rested state.
  • It is calculated by measuring the amount of oxygen the body consumes and the amount of carbon dioxide produced.

Why Measure REE?

  • To assess your body's energy requirements (calorie requirements) at rest.
  • To inform your trainer and dietitian/nutritionist how best to tailor your fitness program to get results.

REE Test Protocol

  • Your height and weight will be measured.
  • You will be required to lie for 20 minutes before we start the measurement.
  • You will then lie with a clear canopy over your head, which measures you breathing, for a further 30 minutes.
  • Room air is drawn through the canopy at a fixed rate, while the air you breathe out of the canopy is collected and analysed for oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
  • Total testing session time is 1 hour.

Pre test requirements:

  • No food or exercise for 3 hrs prior.