How to switch fitness trackers without losing your health data

Switching fitness trackers no longer means losing years of health data, as major brands like Apple, Garmin, and Google now offer simplified transfer processes in 2026. Users can migrate workouts, sleep, and heart rate records when upgrading or changing manufacturers. The process involves three steps: backing up data, syncing new activities, and importing historical records. Apple users can export via the Health app, while Garmin offers web-based file downloads in FIT, TCX, or GPX formats. Google's new Health platform uses Takeout for backups, though Health Connect may only grant 30 days of historical access. Proprietary metrics like sleep scores may not transfer between brands, and users should verify file compatibility before switching. Strava serves as a useful intermediary for workout history, allowing manual uploads of exported files, though complete health archives remain platform-specific.