By: Ryan Nelson – Runner’s Tribe
Strava is a mobile fitness app that calculates the distance, time, elevation gain, calories, heart rate and many other components of our workouts. This is a great device for cyclers and runners, because it keeps track without being attached to you. There are several pros and cons associated with this app, that may attract or deter consumers.
Detaches person from maps – This app is said to be great for building infrastructure because it keeps track of the terrain that has been crossed. It can let users know where it is possible to go in undiscovered areas. With an increase in identity theft, many people are not open to their personal information being shared with third parties. They also don’t want to feel like they are being tracked. This app allows their identity to be completely detached from the app, while providing information on the places that they have been. Instead of seeing where Jane Doe has been running, the system will see an anonymous connection of places on a map. This option increases the confidence in some users.
Fun to use – The main reason why this app is so popular is that it allows users to compete with each other. This is especially fun in cities like New York and Los Angeles, where the tracks and riders are endless. If you run or bike on an area where another user has been, it will compare your data with the other person’s. You can challenge yourself to beat them or increase your own workout. If the privacy options are not carefully input, the person’s name, address and other personal information will pop up on the screen. Novices should be aware of this and dismantle this function if they do not want their information to be public.
Versatile – The app is versatile in that it uses bluetooth, ANT devices and it has an accurate GPS. It is available for both Android and IOS. The premium version includes coaching, live feedback, and a goal monitor which allows you to input your desired fitness goals and the app will keep you updated on your progress. There is also an auto stop when you are in a stationary position.
Only for competition – If you are not into competition with your workout, it might be best to use another app. While this app can be used to track individual goals, there are other apps that provide more features for personal workouts. The social component of Strava is a lot of fun to users and it said to be the main reason why most of them use it.
Being fit is one of the most important decisions that you can make for yourself. If you are into a collective effort to meet your goals, Strava is a great app and worth the purchase. In order to enjoy it fully, you have to be a premium member. Users have loved the idea of meeting other users in their area, competing with friends and being a part of a fitness community. Many users also share pictures of locations, so you can share ideas on where to run or bike.
