Back up a Windows fitness journal: Cali and Calibrate
Keep Cali and Calibrate records recoverable with app-specific backups, readable CSV exports and a careful Windows restore workflow.
Separate protected storage from a portable backup
Cali and Calibrate protect their working records with DPAPI for the current Windows account. Copying the protected working file to another account is not a portable recovery plan. Use the app’s full Windows backup export when you need to retain meals, training, profile, journal and observations together.
Store exports privately
Exported JSON backups and CSV files are readable and can contain sensitive personal records. Keep them in a private, access-controlled location and a separate recoverable backup. Neither app automatically synchronises Apple Health or CloudKit data. Optional barcode lookup is a separate online action and is not a backup service.
Keep the correct app and format
Each full backup identifies Cali or Calibrate and includes a checksum. Restore rejects a different app or unsupported version. The checksum detects accidental changes; it is not encryption and does not authenticate an untrusted sender. Preserve the original export rather than editing a backup by hand.
Use CSV for review and exchange
Meal and weight CSV exports provide readable records for inspection. They do not replace a full backup of every app field. Reopen a sample and compare dates, units, Unicode names and a few known values. Weight import requires date, weight_kg, intake_kcal and complete columns; missing intake is distinct from a recorded zero.
Back up the current workspace before restoring
A full restore replaces current records after checking the selected backup. Export the current workspace first, then review the confirmation and restore the intended app’s backup. If protected storage cannot be read, the app preserves original files and offers recovery; export a recovered view before making a replacement.
Review calculation inputs after recovery
Check profile, units, goal and completeness of recorded days before applying a proposed estimate. Calibrate needs at least eight complete observations across a week; both apps ask you to review planning changes. These instructions concern data handling, not nutritional or medical advice.