What’s the deal with Strava?

With more than 2.8 million apps available for Android users and just over 2 million available on Apple’s App Store, downloading one that suits your needs (and doesn’t bombard you with ads) is a tricky business. Here we break down the who, what, where and how of the website and health and fitness app Strava.

 

Who is it for?

Over 8 million runners, cyclists and triathletes use Strava, so if you are an athlete − or run and cycle to such an extent that people think you’re one − then this app is worth your time.

What does it do, and how does it do it?

Although Strava is categorised as a health and fitness app, it is marketed as “a social network for athletes”. Strava allows users to not only record and analyse their running and cycling activities, but also to connect with the Strava community by sharing their performance, stories and photos. If you’ve got a competitive nature, then you can also use Strava to compete with users around the world!

Strava also puts safety first: the Beacon feature allows you to share your location live with loved ones, so they’ll be the first to know if you’re in trouble.

According to Strava, the app “records just about any performance metric you can imagine, plus a few exclusive to Strava”.

Strava records GPS-based activities via your Android or iOS devices, but you can also sync external devices, including Apple Watch, Android Wear, and most popular GPS devices and heart rate monitors. Users can also sync data from other fitness sites, including Endomondo, MapMyRun, and Runtastic. Alternatively, you can manually log your activities.

Where is it available?

Strava is available as an app on Google Play and Apple’s App Store. Users can also log in to strava.com to view their data and connect with other users.

For how much…?

The app is free to download and most features are free to use. A premium subscription offers features such as personalised coaching, live feedback, and advanced analysis.