How step tracking works in MyFitnesspal

How step tracking works

Step Tracking counts your daily steps using a connected app or device. MyFitnessPal uses that step data to adjust your daily calorie goal based on your activity level. This article covers how to turn on Step Tracking, choose a step source, and view your results on iOS, Android, and the website.

What step tracking does

MyFitnessPal does not track steps on its own. It pulls step data from a connected app or device, such as Apple Health, Google Health, or Health Connect. Your step count appears in the Healthy Habits section of your Today tab. Connected step sources also generate a Calorie Adjustment, which raises your daily calorie goal on more active days.

Select your step source 

iOS

1. Open MyFitnessPal and tap More. If you do not see a More menu, tap your Profile Icon instead.
2. Tap Apps & Devices.
3. Select your preferred partner app, then tap Connect.
4. Follow the prompts to allow MyFitnessPal access to your step data.
5. After connecting, go back to the menu and tap Steps. Select your connected partner app as your step source.

Android

1. Open the MyFitnessPal app and tap the More menu in the bottom right.
2. Tap Apps & Devices.
3. Select your preferred partner app, then tap Connect.
4. Follow the prompts to allow MyFitnessPal access to your step data.
5. After connecting, go back to the menu and tap Steps. Select your connected partner app as your step source.

Web

1. Log in to your account on our website using the same email and password you use for the app.
2. Click the Apps tab near the top of the screen.
3. Select your preferred partner app, then tap Connect.
4. Click the Steps sub-tab, then click Select next to your connected tracker.

View Your Steps and Calorie Adjustment

• Your step count and daily goal progress appear in the Healthy Habits section of your Today tab.
• Your full step history is available on the Progress tab.
• Most connected trackers also add a Calorie Adjustment to your Exercise Diary. See Understanding your Calorie Adjustment for a full breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why don't my steps match my tracker's app exactly?

MyFitnessPal syncs with your step source at set intervals, not in real time. Small differences between the two apps are normal and should even out by the end of the day.

Can I use Step Tracking without a wearable device?

Yes. Apple Health, Google Fit, and Health Connect can track steps using your phone's built-in motion sensor. A separate wearable is not required.

Can I change my step goal?

Yes. If a phone-based source like Apple Health is your step source, update your goal by opening the main menu in MyFitnessPal, then tap Steps. Your Step goal will be displayed at the bottom of the screen. If you use a wearable, update your goal in that device's app, and it will sync to MyFitnessPal.

Why did I get a Calorie Adjustment I did not expect?

Calorie Adjustments compare your actual activity to the activity level on your MyFitnessPal profile. A more active day than usual can trigger an adjustment. Please read Understanding your Calorie Adjustment for more information. 

Can I turn off Step Tracking?

Yes. Go to More, then Apps & Devices, select your connected tracker, and tap Disconnect.