What is Google Fit?

Google Fit is a free health and fitness app from Google that lets you track your daily activities. The app is available for Android phones and can also be used in the browser at fit.google.com. Google Fit uses the sensors in your phone to detect movement and works with countless fitness apps and wearables.

What makes Google Fit unique is its use of Heart Points and Steps as measurable goals. Heart Points are based on recommendations from the American Heart Association and the WHO, which gives you a scientifically backed goal to work toward.

Downloading and installing Google Fit

Google Fit comes preinstalled on many Android phones. If it is not, you can easily download the app from the Google Play Store.

Step 1: Download the app

Open the Google Play Store and search for 'Google Fit'. Tap 'Install' and wait for the download to finish. The app is small and should be installed within a minute.

Step 2: Sign in with your Google Account

Open Google Fit and sign in with your Google Account. If you are already signed in on your Android phone, this account is suggested automatically. You can also choose a different account if you prefer.

Step 3: Fill in your profile

Enter your basic details such as gender, date of birth, weight and height. This information is important for accurate calculations of calories burned and your Heart Points.

Step 4: Set your daily goals

Google Fit asks you to set daily goals for Steps and Heart Points. The default values are 10,000 steps and 150 Heart Points per week, but you can adjust them to your own level.

Understanding and earning Heart Points

Heart Points are the core metric of Google Fit and are designed to motivate you to move more. You earn Heart Points based on the intensity of your activity:

How do you earn Heart Points?

The WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, which equals 150 Heart Points. By reaching this goal, you contribute to a healthier heart and better overall fitness.

Tracking activities automatically and manually

Automatic activity detection

Google Fit automatically detects when you walk, run, cycle or sit still. The app uses the sensors in your phone to recognize movement patterns. Make sure you have your phone with you during activities for the most accurate tracking.

Adding activities manually

Sometimes you want to add activities manually, for example if you went swimming (without your phone) or did a specific workout. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Google Fit and tap the '+' button at the bottom right
  2. Select 'Add activity'
  3. Choose the type of activity from the list (running, cycling, yoga, etc.)
  4. Enter the start time, duration and, if applicable, distance
  5. Tap 'Save' to add the activity

Connecting Google Fit with other apps and devices

One of the strengths of Google Fit is its ability to sync with a wide range of apps and wearables. This gives you a more complete picture of your health.

  • Strava for running and cycling
  • MyFitnessPal for food tracking
  • Sleep as Android for sleep tracking
  • Headspace for meditation
  • Withings for weight and blood pressure

Connecting wearables

Google Fit works with Wear OS smartwatches and many other fitness devices. To connect a device:

  1. Open Google Fit and go to your Profile
  2. Tap 'Settings' (gear icon)
  3. Select 'Manage connected apps'
  4. Find your wearable's app and follow the instructions to connect it

Using the Google Fit dashboard

The Google Fit home screen shows a clear dashboard with your most important statistics. You immediately see your progress toward your daily goals for Steps and Heart Points.

Daily, weekly and monthly statistics

Tap the different cards to see more detailed information. You can switch between daily, weekly and monthly overviews to discover trends in your activity.

Viewing the Journal

The 'Journal' tab shows a chronological overview of all your activities. Here you can look back at specific workouts and see how your performance develops over time.

Tips for better results with Google Fit

Carry your phone consistently

For accurate step counts and automatic activity detection, it is essential that you carry your phone with you. Keep it in your pants pocket for the best results.

Calibrate for accuracy

If you notice that distance measurements are off, you can calibrate Google Fit by starting a GPS activity and walking or running a known distance.

Set realistic goals

Start with achievable goals and increase them gradually. If 10,000 steps is too ambitious, start with 5,000 and slowly build up.

Use reminders

Turn on notifications to get reminders when you have been sitting still for too long. This helps you move regularly throughout the day.

Privacy and data management

Google Fit stores your data in your Google Account. You can manage your privacy in the settings:

  • View and delete specific activities in the Journal
  • Manage which apps have access to your Fit data
  • Download or delete all your data via Google Takeout

Google does not use your fitness data for ads, and you always have full control over your data.

Using Google Fit on the web

Besides the mobile app, you can also use Google Fit at fit.google.com in your web browser. This is handy for viewing more detailed statistics on a larger screen or for adding activities manually.

Conclusion

Google Fit is an excellent choice for anyone who wants an easy way to move more. With the Heart Points system you have a clear, scientifically backed goal to work toward. By connecting the app with other fitness apps and wearables, you get a complete picture of your health. Start using Google Fit today and take the first steps toward a more active lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions

Is Google Fit free?

Yes, Google Fit is completely free to use. There are no hidden costs or premium features you have to pay for.

What are Heart Points in Google Fit?

Heart Points are a metric based on WHO recommendations. You earn points by moving, and more intense activities earn more points. The goal is 150 Heart Points per week for a healthy heart.

Does Google Fit work with Apple Watch?

No, Google Fit does not work directly with Apple Watch. The app is primarily designed for Android and Wear OS devices. For Apple Watch, you are better off using Apple Health.

How accurate is the Google Fit step counter?

Google Fit is reasonably accurate when you carry your phone in your pants pocket. For the most precise measurements, you can connect a smartwatch or fitness tracker.