.FIT File Extension
Garmin Activity File
| Developer | Garmin |
| Popularity |
3.2 | 86 Votes |
| Open with | Garmin Training Center — Discontinued |
What is a FIT file?
A FIT file is a GIS data saved in a Garmin-specific version of the Flexible and Interoperable Data Transfer (FIT) format used by Garmin GPS sport devices and Garmin software. It contains various information such as location, time, and other performance metrics, including speed, elevation, heart rate, and cadence. FIT files are typically logged during athletic events like runs, bike races, or other types of workouts to record and store fitness activity data.
More Information
Garmin Activity FIT files are similar in structure to the general FIT format but have several distinctions. For example, they are generated specifically by Garmin devices (e.g., GPS watches, fitness trackers, and bike computers). Also, the data in a Garmin FIT file may include Garmin-specific data extensions (e.g., proprietary metrics) that other platforms do not fully support.
Additionally, the Garmin Activity FIT format is similar to the .TCX format, but offers a more efficient and compact storage solution, allowing for faster data processing and reduced file sizes. This makes it a better choice for athletes who want to keep detailed records of their activities and track their progress across multiple devices and platforms.
How to open a FIT file
You can open Garmin Activity FIT files with the Garmin Connect web service, which allows you to track and analyze physical activities over time. After uploading Your FIT file to Garmin Connect, you can visualize your workout routes on a map and review key metrics, such as distance traveled, duration, and calories burned for each activity.
Programs that open FIT files
Flexible and Interoperable Data Transfer File
| Developer | Garmin |
| Popularity |
3.0 | 1 Vote |
| Open with | TrainingPeaks |
A FIT file may also be a data file saved in the Flexible and Interoperable Data Transfer (FIT) format, an open standard for storing and transferring activity data across multiple devices and platforms, including Garmin, Wahoo, and Strava. It contains activity data (e.g., GPS distance traveled), performance metrics (e.g., training load and lap splits), and device metadata (e.g., the device type and model recording the data). Fitness enthusiasts primarily use FIT files to track progress, analyze performance, and compare workouts.
More Information
Garmin created the FIT format to provide a standardized, interoperable file format that various devices and applications supported, not just those within Garmin’s ecosystem. The FIT format supports fitness tracking, sports performance metrics, and GPS-related data, which makes it particularly useful for devices like fitness trackers, smartwatches, and bike computers.
NOTE: While FIT files are widely supported, Garmin also develops a specialized version of the FIT format known as Garmin Activity FIT. It stores data in a similar structure but also supports Garmin-specific data that standard FIT files do not support, and only Garmin devices create them.
How to open a FIT file
You can open FIT files with various fitness-related apps, such as Garmin Connect (web), Strava (multiplatform), and TrainingPeaks (multiplatform). For example, to open a FIT file with TrainingPeaks in a web browser, navigate to the "Calendars" page, and then select Import → File.