The Power of Owning Your Lifting Data with Google Sheets

As lifters, we invest countless hours in the gym, pushing our limits and striving for progress. But are we giving the same attention to our lifting data? Here’s why taking ownership of your strength journey matters and how Google Sheets can empower you as your ultimate workout companion.

1. Lifting For Life

Remember this: Lifting is a lifelong journey. When we start lifting, imagining where we will be in 5, 10, or even 20 years of exercise isn’t easy. Lifting begins as just a hobby and then grows into a lifelong passion. In the second half of life, lifting becomes a key to thriving. Each rep, set, and PR tells a story of dedication and growth. We shouldn’t let go of that story.

2. Beyond Fitness Apps and Data Silos

While fitness apps and services are convenient, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks of relying solely on them. What if the app shuts down or changes its features? These are valid concerns that could affect your lifting journey. By keeping your own copy of your lifting history, you ensure that your data remains secure and accessible, no matter what.

If you have a preferred fitness app, that is great! We recommend dual recording into both your preferred app and also your system. Over the years, most lifters will likely change fitness apps occasionally. By maintaining your own records, you retain control over your data in the long term.

(Note: we are working on importers to help read data from popular fitness apps into a more general CSV format)

3. Google Sheets: Your Personal Gym Log

Enter Google Sheets—a powerful yet simple tool for tracking your lifts. It’s fast, works seamlessly on mobile devices, can be accessed anywhere, and works offline, making it a convenient and comfortable choice for your lifting journey. We recommend a simple journal-style format:

Click here to open our sample data template

4. Celebrate Your Progress

While obsessing over numbers isn’t necessary, having a record of your journey can be incredibly motivating. It’s easy to forget how far you’ve come, but with your lifting log, you can look back and be thankful for past achievements. A complete history of your lifting data helps you celebrate consistency as well as memorable barbell moments.

Conclusion

Owning your lifting data isn’t just about numbers—it’s about taking control of your fitness narrative. Using Google Sheets, you create a lasting record of your strength journey. The Strength Journeys web app instantly lets you analyze and track this progress over time.