Strava is a popular cycling app that allows users to track and record their rides, share their progress with friends and other cyclists, and participate in challenges and competitions. It has become an essential tool for cyclists of all abilities, from beginners to professionals, and has a range of features that make it a must-have app for anyone who loves cycling. Now over 10 years old, Strava has become an essential part of cycling lore in that time.
Ride tracking on Strava
One of the main features of Strava is its ability to track and record your rides. The app uses GPS to map your route and record key data, such as distance, speed, elevation, and time. This data is then displayed in an easy-to-read format, allowing you to see your progress over time and compare your performance to other cyclists. You can also set goals for yourself, such as completing a certain distance or achieving a specific time, and track your progress towards these goals.
Another great feature of Strava is its social aspect. You can connect with friends and other cyclists on the app, and share your progress with them. This is a great way to stay motivated and keep up your cycling routine, as you can see how your friends are doing and compete with them. You can also join groups and clubs on the app, allowing you to connect with like-minded cyclists and participate in challenges and competitions. Strava has repeatedly pushed its social network credentials, with photos and videos able to be added to rides.
Segments on Strava
One of the unique features of Strava is its “segments” feature. Segments are specific sections of road or trail that are popular with cyclists, and Strava allows you to track your performance on these segments. You can see how you compare to other cyclists on these segments, and try to improve your time or climb the leaderboard. This is a fun way to challenge yourself and push yourself to improve your cycling performance. This was the core feature of Strava and what separated it from similar apps. Bagging a King or Queen of the Mountain by being the fastest rider on a segment can still hold plenty of kudos.
Strava also has a range of premium features that are available for a fee. These features include training plans, personalised coaching, and advanced analytics. While these features are not necessary for most users, they can be useful for serious cyclists who want to take their training to the next level.
Overall, Strava is an excellent cycling app that is well worth the download. It has a range of features that make it a must-have for cyclists of all abilities, from tracking and recording your rides to connecting with other cyclists and competing in challenges and competitions. The app is easy to use and intuitive, and the data it provides is extremely helpful for tracking your progress and improving your cycling performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, Strava is a great tool to help you achieve your cycling goals.
