Changing Your Calorie Goal in the MyFitnessPal App
Many MyFitnessPal users, particularly those who frequent Reddit forums, report that the app's automatic calorie goal calculation doesn't align with their specific needs. While the Premium version offers direct manual input, free users must use workarounds. Here is the process for both options.
For MyFitnessPal Premium Users
- Navigate to the Goals section. Tap 'More' (iOS) or the menu icon (Android), then select 'Goals'.
- Access calorie settings. Under 'Nutrition Goals', tap 'Calorie, Carbs, Protein, and Fat Goals'.
- Enter your manual goal. You can now directly enter your desired calorie amount. Premium also allows setting specific daily goals.
- Save your changes. Tap the checkmark or 'Save' button to apply your new goal.
For Free MyFitnessPal Users
Free users cannot simply type in a new calorie number. Instead, the goal is determined by your profile settings. The most common Reddit-recommended workaround is to force a recalculation.
- Access your goals. Tap 'More', then 'Goals'.
- Modify your weight. Change your 'Current Weight' to a slightly different value (e.g., up or down by one pound). Save the change.
- Revert the weight change. Immediately go back and change your weight back to its correct value. This forces a goal recalculation based on your current stats.
- Check the result. Your daily calorie goal should now be updated to reflect your new metrics. Some Reddit users also report success by re-selecting their weekly weight change goal and saving, even without altering the setting.
Troubleshooting Common Glitches and Website Method
Some users report persistent issues where the app reverts to its own calculation, even after attempting manual overrides or workarounds. When the app is being stubborn, the MyFitnessPal website can provide a more stable platform for making changes.
Using the MyFitnessPal Website
- Log in to the website. Use a web browser to log in to your MyFitnessPal account.
- Go to 'Goals'. From the menu, click 'My Home', then 'Goals'.
- Edit your nutrition goals. Select 'Edit' next to 'Daily Nutrition Goals'.
- Make changes and save. Adjust your settings as desired and click 'Save Changes' at the bottom of the page.
- Sync the app. The changes made on the website will sync to the app the next time you open it.
Some users experiencing severe glitches have found success by performing a sequence involving website changes, uninstalling the app, and reinstalling it without immediately progressing through the setup screen. This drastic step can force a full sync.
Comparison of Goal Setting Options
| Feature | Free Version | Premium Version |
|---|---|---|
| Calorie Goal Method | Automatic, based on profile and activity level. Requires profile manipulation to force updates. | Manual entry enabled. Can set a specific number. |
| Macro Goals | Can be adjusted as percentages in 5% increments. | Can be set in precise gram increments. |
| Daily Goals | Single, static goal for all days of the week. | Can set different goals for different days (e.g., rest days vs. workout days). |
| Workarounds Needed? | Yes, users rely on Reddit-sourced tips like changing weight to prompt recalculations. | No, direct manual control is a standard feature. |
| Stability | Sometimes prone to glitches where the app overrides user input. | Generally more stable for custom settings. |
Conclusion: Finding the Right Method for You
While MyFitnessPal’s automated system is a useful starting point, many advanced users on Reddit prefer more control over their calorie targets. For those on the free version, the weight-change workaround or using the website provides the best path to adjusting goals. For those needing precise, daily-specific control, upgrading to Premium is the most straightforward solution. Regardless of your method, staying persistent and verifying your changes across platforms can help overcome stubborn app behavior and keep your nutrition tracking on point.
This article provides general guidance. For personalized advice, consider consulting a healthcare professional or registered dietitian. [https://www.myfitnesspal.com/]