Many people assume that the apps they use automatically prioritise privacy. “Default settings are designed for maximum engagement, not maximum safety,” says Rianette Leibowitz, cyber wellness and safety expert.

Apps encourage users to share achievements, routes and photos because it helps build community and attract new users. “It is similar to joining a sports club where your name and stats are pinned on the noticeboard unless you ask for them to remain private,” she explains.

While the community is great, these default settings mean your fitness app privacy might be lower than you think. Taking a few minutes to review your settings (and using the fitness app safety tips below) can significantly reduce how much information strangers can see.

READ MORE: Your Fitness App Might Be Sharing More Than Your Step Count

6 Fitness App Privacy Settings You Should Prioritise

Think of this as your digital warm-up before you start training.

1. Check (And Audit) What Data The App Collects

Read the terms and conditions before installing the app. “What can the owner do with your personal information?” asks Leibowitz. “Are you giving permission for it to be sold or used elsewhere?” In the case of platforms like Facebook and TikTok, it is important to understand who owns the information you share. Your photos, videos and content may become the property of the platform. With fitness apps, check what information they ask for and who owns that data.

2. Limit Location Sharing And Set “Privacy Zones”

Turn off public location sharing where possible. If the app requires access, choose “while using the app” rather than continuous tracking. On apps like Strava or Garmin, use the “Privacy Zone” feature to create a hidden radius around your home address.

3. Review Who Can See Your Activity

Ensure your profile visibility is set to “friends only” or private. This prevents strangers from seeing your workout history, regular routes, local gym and start times.

4. Disable Automatic Social Posting

Many apps automatically share workouts to other social media platforms. Turning this off gives you control over what appears online.

5. Strengthen Your Password Security

Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where available. And no, “Matcha2026” probably should not be your password.

6. Review App Permissions Regularly

Avoid giving apps unnecessary access to contacts, photos or your camera. “Only allow permissions that are essential for the app to function,” says Leibowitz. Check your phone’s “Privacy & Security” settings regularly to see what is running in the background.

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Balancing Community And Privacy

Fitness communities can be powerful motivators. “Community is like having teammates cheering you on,” says Leibowitz. But she recommends a few boundaries:

• Share progress in private groups rather than public feeds
• Celebrate milestones without revealing exact routes or times. Posting runner numbers or other identifying details, such as a car registration number, can unintentionally reveal personal information. “These pieces of information can sometimes be used for social engineering,” she explains. “That is when criminals combine small pieces of data to build a picture of your identity.”
• Use nicknames or avatars to help protect your identity while still allowing you to participate socially. However, it is still important to remain responsible and respectful in every online interaction.
• Set boundaries: If someone’s interaction feels intrusive, block or report immediately. This way, you keep the motivation and camaraderie without compromising safety.

READ MORE: How To Have A Healthier Relationship With Fitness Apps, Without Quitting Exercise

Digital Safety Rule Of Thumb

There are many tips to remember, but Leibowitz recommends keeping one simple mantra in mind: “Share the achievement, not the details.” Celebrate your progress online, but avoid posting exact times, places or personal identifiers. If you would not announce the information over a loudspeaker at your gym, it is probably not something you should post online.

“Share the achievement, not the details.”

If you do step into a trap, do not be too hard on yourself. Even the most cyber-aware people can fall victim to online risks. Stay calm and reach out to the platform or industry experts for help.

The risks within apps are not always obvious because they feel fun and motivational. But by being cyber savvy, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

To connect with Rianette, go to @CyberWellness_with_Rianette or visit www.rianette.com.