Why has MyFitnessPal stopped working?

Recent user reports indicate a variety of issues, including server outages, login failures, and syncing errors. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward a fix, as problems can range from a device-specific bug to a widespread server issue.

Quick Summary

This guide details the primary reasons MyFitnessPal might stop working, covering server problems, device incompatibilities, login errors, and syncing failures. It provides practical, step-by-step solutions for each issue to get your app running smoothly again.

Key Points

• Server Status Check: Before anything else, visit the MyFitnessPal status page to see if there's a widespread outage.

• Clear App Cache: Corrupted app cache is a frequent cause of app crashes and can often be fixed by clearing it through device settings.

• Update or Reinstall: An outdated app version is a common culprit. If updating doesn't work, a full reinstall can resolve many underlying software conflicts.

• Verify Account Credentials: For login issues, first confirm the correct username and password, and consider resetting the password.

• Check OS Compatibility: Ensure the device's operating system (Android or iOS) is still supported by the latest MyFitnessPal version.

• Address Syncing Issues: If a third-party device isn't syncing, try disconnecting and reconnecting it within the app's settings.

• Review Internet Connection: App failures can stem from a simple, unstable network connection. Confirm Wi-Fi or mobile data is reliable.

Common Reasons Why MyFitnessPal Stops Working

When the MyFitnessPal app suddenly stops working, the cause isn't always obvious. While it's easy to assume the problem is with the app itself, the issue can often be traced back to the device, the network connection, or even a problem with a connected third-party service. Pinpointing the exact issue is crucial for finding the right solution. For example, a temporary server outage requires a different approach than a glitch caused by a corrupted app cache.

Server Outages and Scheduled Maintenance

One of the most common reasons for MyFitnessPal to stop working is a problem on the company's side. This could be due to a major server outage or scheduled maintenance. During such events, features like logging in, syncing data, or accessing certain pages may become temporarily unavailable. Checking the official MyFitnessPal Status page is the most reliable way to confirm if a widespread outage is occurring.

Device-Specific Problems

Many issues originate from the mobile device. Over time, an app's stored cache can become corrupted, or the app itself can become outdated, leading to unexpected behavior and crashes.

Outdated App Version

Developers regularly release updates that include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. If automatic updates are disabled, an outdated version of the MyFitnessPal app might have known bugs that have since been resolved. Check the device's app store for any pending updates.

Corrupted App Cache or Data

The app stores temporary files and data in its cache to improve performance. However, if this cache becomes corrupted, it can cause the app to crash or behave erratically. This is a particularly common cause for problems on Android devices.

Incompatible Operating Systems

MyFitnessPal occasionally discontinues support for older operating system versions. If the device is running an older OS, the app may fail to load or function correctly.

Account and Login Issues

Sometimes, the problem is with account credentials, especially after a period of inactivity. Common login errors include incorrect passwords or issues related to single sign-on services like 'Sign in with Apple'. If 'Sign in with Apple' was used initially, it may be necessary to use the unique email address Apple assigned to the account to log in on other platforms.

Syncing Errors with Third-Party Devices

If MyFitnessPal is used with other fitness trackers like Fitbit, Apple Health, or Google Fit, syncing issues can occur. This can happen if the integration permissions are incorrect or if there is a temporary communication breakdown between the services. For example, if Apple Health data isn't syncing, it may be necessary to re-enable permissions in the iPhone's settings.

Internet Connectivity Problems

While less complex, a poor or unstable internet connection can prevent the app from connecting to MyFitnessPal's servers, leading to frustrating loading screens or login failures. Ensuring a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection is a basic, but essential, troubleshooting step.

How to Fix MyFitnessPal Problems: A Comprehensive Guide

Here is a series of steps to systematically resolve most issues you may be facing with the MyFitnessPal app.

1. Check for an Official Service Outage: Before trying any other fix, visit the official MyFitnessPal Status Page at https://status.myfitnesspal.com/ to see if there's a known service issue. If there is, all you can do is wait for the company to resolve it.
2. Restart Your Device: A simple restart can clear up temporary software glitches and memory issues. Power off the phone or tablet completely and turn it back on.
3. Ensure a Stable Connection: Confirm a strong and reliable internet connection. Try switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data or vice versa to see if the issue persists.
4. Clear App Cache and Data (Android): For Android users, clearing the app's cache and storage can resolve issues caused by corrupted files. Navigate to the device's Settings > Apps > MyFitnessPal > Storage & cache and tap 'Clear cache' and 'Clear storage'. Remember that clearing storage will require you to log back in.
5. Update the App: Visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and check for any available updates for MyFitnessPal. Install them immediately.
6. Reinstall the App: If other steps fail, reinstalling the app often fixes deep-seated issues. Before you do this, log into your account on the MyFitnessPal website to ensure your data has been synced and backed up.
7. Reset Your Password: If you can't log in, try resetting your password via the 'Forgot password?' link on the login screen or website. Check your spam folder for the reset email.
8. Re-link Third-Party Apps: If syncing issues persist, try disconnecting and then reconnecting third-party fitness trackers like Fitbit or Apple Health within the app's settings.
9. Disable VPN: Some users have reported issues with the app when a VPN is active. Try temporarily disabling the VPN to see if it resolves the problem.
10. Check OS Compatibility: Verify that the device is running an OS version supported by MyFitnessPal. If it's not, you'll need to use the website version or a compatible device.

Troubleshooting by Platform

Problem	Android	iOS	Web
App Crashing	Clear cache/data; update app; reinstall	Restart device; update app; reinstall	Clear browser cache/cookies
Can't Log In	Clear cache/data; reset password; reinstall	Reset password; check 'Sign in with Apple' settings; reinstall	Reset password; clear browser cache
Syncing Issue	Clear cache; force sync; reconnect device	Check HealthKit permissions; reconnect device; reinstall	N/A (Web version syncs directly)
Server Outage	Check Status Page; wait for resolution	Check Status Page; wait for resolution	Check Status Page; wait for resolution
Unresponsive UI	Clear cache; reinstall	Restart device; reinstall	Clear browser cache; disable HTTPS extensions

Conclusion

While it's frustrating when MyFitnessPal stops working, most issues can be resolved with a few simple steps. The key is to first check for official server outages using the status page before proceeding with local, device-specific fixes like clearing your cache or reinstalling the app. If you've tried all the troubleshooting steps and the problem persists, consulting the official MyFitnessPal support resources is the next best action. With a little patience, you'll be back to tracking health and fitness goals in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if MyFitnessPal won't load at all?

First, check the MyFitnessPal status page to see if there is a server outage. If not, try restarting the device. If it still won't load, clearing the app's cache or reinstalling the app may solve the problem.

Why won't MyFitnessPal let me log in?

This could be an incorrect password, a server issue, or an account problem. Try logging in on the MyFitnessPal website first. If that fails, reset the password. iOS users who used 'Sign in with Apple' might need to check their hidden email address.

MyFitnessPal isn't syncing with my Fitbit. How can I fix this?

Disconnect and then reconnect the Fitbit integration within MyFitnessPal's settings. Also, ensure all necessary permissions are enabled for the connection to work properly.

Why did MyFitnessPal suddenly stop working on my older phone?

MyFitnessPal regularly updates its OS requirements. The app is no longer supported on iOS versions lower than 17.0 or Android versions lower than 12. If the device runs an older OS, this is the likely cause.

What does it mean when I see an 'unable to connect to server' error?

This error points to a problem with the app communicating with MyFitnessPal's servers. Check the official status page for outages. If no outage is reported, reinstalling the app often resolves the issue.

Is there a way to clear the cache on iOS for MyFitnessPal?

iOS does not have a native 'clear cache' option for individual apps like Android. The most effective method is to uninstall and then reinstall the MyFitnessPal app.

MyFitnessPal web version looks broken. How do I fix it?

For web version problems, clearing your browser's cache and cookies is usually the solution. Also, disable any browser extensions that might interfere with scripts, such as HTTPS add-ons.