Strava is a popular app for runners, cyclists, and other athletes to track their workouts and connect with each other. Here is a guide on how to plan and find routes using Strava’s features:
Table of Contents
Recording Activities
The core functionality of Strava is recording your activities via GPS tracking. You can record activities directly in the Strava mobile app or sync data from compatible devices.
Compatible Devices
Strava syncs seamlessly with most popular fitness devices like phones, GPS watches, cycling computers, and more. As long as your device allows you to export GPX or FIT files, you can upload to Strava.
Recording in the Strava App
Using the Strava mobile app, you can track running, cycling, swimming and more by pressing the “Record” button. The app provides real-time stats like pace, distance, elevation gain and heart rate if you use additional sensors.
Uploading Activities
If you record activities on another device, you can upload the GPX, FIT, or TCX file to Strava via the “Upload” button. Strava will process the file and provide all the same detailed statistics and analysis.
Planning Routes
One of Strava’s most useful features is route planning. With a Strava subscription, you can create custom routes or discover new places to explore.
Creating Routes
On Mobile
In the Strava app, tap “Maps” -> “Routes” -> “Draw Your Own Route” to open the route builder. Choose your sport, distance preferences and surface type. Then drop pins on the map to trace your desired route.
On Desktop
On Strava’s website, hover over “Explore” and click “Create a Route”. Use the map tools to trace out a route just like in the mobile app.
When finished, name your route, add a description, make it public or private and save it. The route will now appear in your library to navigate on your next activity.
Discovering New Routes
Strava can automatically suggest running and cycling routes based on popularity data from athlete activities.
On mobile, tap “Maps” -> “Routes” and Strava will show recommended routes near your location. Filter by sport type, distance and surface to get personalized route ideas.
Using Routes
Once you’ve created or discovered routes on Strava, there are a few ways to utilize them:
On Mobile
Tap the route icon on the record screen to see your saved routes. Select one to have the route overlay guide you turn-by-turn on your activity.
With Compatible Devices
You can sync routes from Strava to compatible GPS devices. Follow the on-screen cues from your watch or bike computer to navigate the route.
Route Metrics and Analysis
After completing a route, all the usual Strava statistics will be available to analyze your performance. Compare your effort to past activities on the same route.
Finding Segments
Another great way to discover where to run or ride is by using Strava’s segment explorer. Segments show the most popular routes athletes have done based on GPS data.
On desktop, click “Explore” -> “Segments” to browse segments near you. Filter by sport type, distance, surface and difficulty. You can star favorite segments to do again another day.
When viewing a segment, click on the leaderboard to explore other athletes’ full activities on that route for ideas where to explore next.
Using Heatmaps
For a big picture view of the most popular running and cycling routes in your area, use Strava’s heatmap. Darker colors indicate routes more frequently used by athletes.
The heatmap is available on desktop under “Explore” -> “Heatmap”. Click and drag to pan around and get inspiration for new places to run or ride.
Joining Clubs and Challenges
Strava has a vibrant community with clubs and challenges perfect for discovering new routes. Browse clubs specific to your city, sport, interests and more to find like-minded athletes and new route ideas from the club activities.
Challenges provide motivation to try a new route that you otherwise might not explore on your own. Sign up for a challenge then check the leaderboard to see what routes other athletes are doing.
So in summary, Strava provides everything you need to thoroughly plan and discover new running and cycling routes. Record your activities, create custom routes, browse segments and heatmaps, and join clubs and challenges. With all these tools, you’ll never run out of new places to explore!
