In recent years, running has become not only an individual physical activity but also a form of social bonding. Especially Generation Z now meets with their friends in running clubs instead of cafes. Strava has become one of the digital platforms that responds most quickly to this change. The rise of the application draws attention not only with its technological innovations but also with its accurate reading of social trends.
The app’s CEO, Michael Martin, told the Financial Times that the IPO plans are becoming clearer. The timing of this announcement is quite significant because the number of Strava users has increased significantly in the last year. The platform, which reached 50 million active users by 2025, has become almost twice the size of its closest rival. However, the 80 percent increase in annual download rates is also remarkable. The company’s value reached 2.2 billion dollars in May.
Strava is now one of the tools of social digitalization
Running is no longer just an endeavor for health. Especially young users are turning to more peaceful and beneficial forms of socialization, away from alcohol consumption. As a natural result of this, running clubs have become the meeting points of the new generation in the city. Strava, on the other hand, was able to digitize these physical communities and turn them into a social platform. This transition seems to be reflected not only in usage rates but also in the cultural impact of the application.
Social interaction has become one of the main building blocks of the application. While the “Kudos” system enables users to motivate each other, individual performance comparisons also trigger competition. In this way, users can track not only their own training but also the progress of others. In other words, while the application supports individual development, it also strengthens social connectedness. All these elements pave the way for users to stay on the platform for longer.
The economic impact of this structure is also quite remarkable. According to Sensor Tower data, users spent a total of $180 million on Strava by the end of September 2025. The company management emphasizes that this figure is well below its actual revenues. Because Strava sees not only the subscription model but also sponsorships and private brand collaborations as a source of income. Regardless, the majority of revenue still comes from direct user interaction.
One of the key components supporting Strava’s revenue model is branded challenges. Users can earn rewards by completing their goals within a certain period of time. These rewards can sometimes turn into digital badges and sometimes into discount coupons. This approach extends the interaction time of the application on users. It also increases Strava’s loyalty rate.
Strava’s cultural impact isn’t limited to in-app interactions. Applications for the 2026 London Marathon increased by 31% compared to last year, reaching 1.1 million. This increase shows how widespread running has become and its social impact is growing. Young people have now started to adopt running as a lifestyle. In addition, Strava has become a tool that directs this change.
Social components have a great impact on Strava’s prominence in a market where competition is intense. While other apps offered more performance tracking, Strava was able to combine personal development with a sense of community. In this way, users not only run but also establish social connections. While running ensures the individual’s inner balance, Strava makes this experience visible. However, this success has also brought with it the interest of investors.