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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about OpenLift's Backend-as-a-Service approach and how we're building a sustainable, open fitness tracking platform.

Getting Started with OpenLift​

What is OpenLift and how is it different from other fitness apps?​

OpenLift is a Backend-as-a-Service fitness tracking platform that puts you in control. Unlike other fitness apps, we offer a unique approach: our backend is fully open source (AGPL v3) while our mobile app provides a consistent, trusted experience.

What makes us different:

  • Backend-as-a-Service: Open source backend, reliable mobile app
  • Complete Control: Self-host with all features unlocked for personal use
  • No Data Sales: We don't monetize your personal information
  • Transparent: Backend code is open source under AGPL v3
  • Sustainable: Fair pricing model that keeps core features free
  • Community-Driven: Active development with Discord and GitHub communities

Is OpenLift free to use?​

Yes, for personal and family use! Our Backend-as-a-Service model offers two ways to use OpenLift:

Self-Hosting (Always Free):

  • All features unlocked for personal and family use
  • Complete backend control and customization
  • Use our official mobile app connected to your backend
  • No ongoing subscription costs

Cloud Service:

  • Core features free for everyone
  • Premium features available for advanced users
  • Convenient hosting and automatic updates
  • Supports the project's continued development

Commercial Use: Businesses, gyms, and fitness centers need a commercial license. Contact us for pricing and support.

What types of workouts and exercises does OpenLift support?​

OpenLift specializes in strength training, powerlifting, and bodybuilding with comprehensive tracking for:

  • Detailed Logging: Weights, reps, sets, RPE, rest periods, workout notes
  • Exercise Library: Extensive database of strength training movements
  • Custom Programs: Create and follow structured workout plans
  • Progression Tracking: Intelligent suggestions based on your performance data
  • Periodization: Support for complex training cycles and planning

Do I need technical knowledge to use OpenLift?​

For Cloud users: No technical knowledge required - just download the app and start tracking workouts.

For self-hosting: Basic familiarity with Docker is helpful, but our setup is straightforward. If you can follow installation instructions and run command-line tools, you can self-host OpenLift. Check our installation guides for step-by-step instructions.

For developers: Explore our GitHub repository and join our Discord community to contribute to the project.

Privacy and Data Security​

How does OpenLift approach privacy?​

Privacy is fundamental to our Backend-as-a-Service approach:

What we don't do:

  • Sell your data to advertisers or third parties
  • Track your usage for marketing purposes
  • Ask for unnecessary permissions
  • Share your workouts without your consent

What we provide:

  • Complete Self-Hosting: Keep your data on your own servers
  • Open Source Transparency: Backend code is open (AGPL v3) so you can verify how it works
  • Minimal Data Collection: Only collect what the app needs to function
  • Clear Policies: Transparent about any data processing on our cloud service
  • Your Choice: Use our cloud service or self-host for maximum privacy

Can I get my workout data out of OpenLift?​

We believe your data should be yours, and we're working on comprehensive data portability:

  • Self-Hosting: Complete database access when you run your own backend
  • GraphQL API: Programmatic access to your data (in development)
  • Data Export: Import/export features are planned but not yet implemented
  • No Lock-in Philosophy: We want you to stay because you like us, not because you're trapped

Current Status: Data import/export features are not yet supported but are part of our roadmap. Self-hosting gives you direct database access in the meantime.

Features and Functionality​

What kind of analytics does OpenLift provide?​

We're building analytics that actually help you get stronger:

Performance Tracking:

  • Volume and intensity trends over time
  • Strength progression charts
  • Personal record tracking
  • One-rep max estimates
  • Training consistency patterns

Helpful Insights:

  • Progression suggestions based on your actual performance
  • Training load monitoring
  • Recovery tracking
  • Pattern recognition to optimize your training

How does progression work in OpenLift?​

We're building a progression system that learns from your actual training:

  • Based on Your Data: Suggestions come from your real lifting performance, not generic formulas
  • Adapts Over Time: The system adjusts as it learns how you respond to training
  • Multiple Approaches: Support for different progression styles (linear, periodized, autoregulated)
  • RPE Integration: Uses your perceived exertion ratings for smarter recommendations

Is there a mobile app for OpenLift?​

Yes! OpenLift includes a mobile app that works with any OpenLift backend. Our Backend-as-a-Service approach means:

  • One mobile app that connects to any OpenLift backend (yours or ours)
  • Consistent experience whether you self-host or use our cloud service
  • Closed source mobile app for security and reliability
  • Open source backend for transparency and customization

Download the app at openlift.app and connect it to your preferred backend.

Technical Questions​

What technology stack powers OpenLift?​

OpenLift is built with modern, reliable technologies:

Backend:

  • TypeScript and Fastify for high-performance APIs
  • GraphQL for flexible data access
  • MongoDB with Prisma for robust data management
  • Docker for easy deployment and scaling

Architecture:

  • Service-oriented design for scalability
  • Comprehensive test coverage
  • RESTful and GraphQL API endpoints
  • Microservices-ready architecture

How do I deploy OpenLift on my own server?​

Self-hosting OpenLift is designed to be straightforward with our open source backend:

  1. Requirements: Docker and Docker Compose
  2. Setup: Clone repository and configure environment variables
  3. Deploy: Run docker-compose up
  4. Configure: Set up database and initial admin user
  5. Connect: Download the mobile app and connect to your backend

Detailed installation guides are available:

Remember: Personal and family self-hosting is free with all features unlocked. Commercial use requires a license.

Getting Help and Community​

How do I get support or report issues?​

Community Support:

For Cloud Users:

  • Email support for paid plans
  • Priority support for premium subscribers
  • Community forums and knowledge base

Can I help with OpenLift development?​

Absolutely! OpenLift is a community-driven project and we welcome contributions:

Ways to contribute:

  • Code: Submit improvements and bug fixes to our GitHub repository
  • Documentation: Help make our guides clearer and more comprehensive
  • Testing: Try new features and report issues
  • Community: Help other users in our Discord server
  • Translation: Help make OpenLift available in more languages

Getting involved:

  • Join our Discord community to connect with other contributors
  • Check our GitHub repository for open issues and contribution guidelines
  • Follow our development progress and share feedback

License: All contributions to the open source backend are under AGPL v3.

Still Have Questions?​

If you can't find the answer you're looking for:

OpenLift's Backend-as-a-Service approach gives you the freedom to choose how you want to use our platform while maintaining a sustainable, community-driven project that respects your data ownership and privacy.