11 Best Strava Alternatives For Runners and Cyclists

Technology has made life better with more and more apps.  Not only that, the latest technology has given the extra edge over mundane activities. So simple actions such as cycling, jogging, etc., now seem more exciting.

Take the case of the app Strava. It makes cycling, running, and riding an exciting and challenging affair by having GPS, tracking the rides, and other challenges.

Strava app can be credited with the fact that it has revolutionized the cyclist’s communication with each other and helped them compare their efforts with others in the field. 

It allows you to share activities and follow friends. Best of all is that the Strava app is free, and there are no charges for recording and sharing the activities.

If you do not want your workouts to be seen by others, you can lock your account. Otherwise, the activities are visible to all who have an internet connection and even show up on Google Searches. 

If you are a long-time user of this app, some of these features may sound a tad bit boring after prolonged use. So, if you are looking for Strava alternatives, then continue reading this article.

Please do not be overwhelmed by so many apps. Each app discussed below has its own special and unique features, which set them apart from the rest and make it the best Strava alternatives.

Best Strava Alternatives – Our Top Pick👌👌

1. Map My Ride

Coming first in the list of best Strava Alternatives, Map My Ride is the best free app for sharing the biking route and other activities with your connections. 

It is owned by Under Armor and is very popular among cyclists because it is compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac.

There are free and paid versions available.  However, many are completely satisfied with the free version. The free version has the personal goal tracking system, lifetime stats, and unlimited mapped routes. 

The paid version comes with cadence analysis, live tracking, a printing map, etc.   It comes with many features and, of course, without ads, which are present in the free version.

Features:-

• Basic Personal Goal tracking system
• Goal Tracking
• Unlimited Mapped routes
• Lifetime Statistics
• Audio feedback on calories burnt, pace maintained
• Easy connectivity with other apps such as MyFitnessPal and to heart rate monitor

Pros:-

• Has a more professional approach to Nutrition
• Clean and modern design
• Synchronizes with other devices such as the Fitbit tracker
• Inputting and exporting data are straightforward and simplified
• Files can be input in formats such as. TCX (Garmin-specific files) and.JPX files

Cons:-

• The Free version has ads, and no live tracking feature is available in the free version

It is good to start with the free version first. However, the only drawback is the presence of ads. Overall, the app is good.

It easily allows from browsing between speed information and elevation information, and a graphic representation of the route on a map is conveniently presented.

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

2. CYCLEMETER

Cyclemeter is the free and best alternative to Strava as it comes with a calendar to plan the personal workout training.

Like the Strava app, the Cyclemeter shows the completed route without the mile markers and gives an overview of the speed traveled on the route.

Created by Abvio, its makers claim it to be the most advanced cycle app. It also helps to schedule the rides before you leave. For motivation, the Cyclemeter app is suggested as it gives regular comments to motivate and encourage to work out more.

There is no need to log in every time. It’s an easy-to-use app especially suitable for beginners and is best suited for iPhone. It collects a wealth of data and is very accurate.  Being well thought out, it instantly appeals to fitness enthusiasts. 

Features:-

• Has trail maps, splits, intervals, and charts for rides
• It supports skiing, running, skating, walking, etc.
• Configurable interval training to guide the user through workout sessions
• Stop detection features to keep only the time spent moving
• Workouts saved on iOS Health
• Can schedule rides and has a calendar for a personal workout plan
• Detailed personal stats graph and announcements
• Easy connectivity with other social media apps

Pros:-

• The app turns the phone into a powerful fitness computer with maps, graphs, splits, intervals, announcements, training plans, and much more
• The workout data is secure and private
• Connects with heart rate monitors, speed sensors, bike cadence sensors, and power meters
• Syncs all your devices using iCloud. Supports iPad for recording and analysis
• Innovative technology
• Free live tracking and messaging

Cons:-

•  Some features need time to understand and utilize their total efficiency

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

3. CycleStreets

CycleStreets App can be best compared to the GPS as it has details about where to go, where to turn, and so on.  It has a live tracking system.  You can plan routes anywhere in the UK with a choice of routing modes.

The app is convenient for cyclists, from beginners to regular commuters to enthusiasts. So, it is one of the best Strava alternatives if you want to find a quiet route and some safe ways to go.

The CycleStreets app is designed by cyclists for cyclists and caters to all types of cycling enthusiasts. It was created by Simon Nutall and Martin Lucas Smith, who are regular bicycle users.

Features:-

• Easy route planning for personal journeys
• Live tracking system which tracks the trip and also tells where you should go
• Simple to use when compared with other similar apps

Pros:-

• With an iPhone, the CycleStreets app seems like a bargain
• Its ad-free
• The app can plan routes for different types of cyclists and helps to prioritize speed, the fitness of roads, etc.
• Great integration as it takes only a few seconds to add pictures to the map

Cons:-

• Not many features to use and lack sophistication
• Battery life is not good enough for long trips.

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

4. Training Peaks

As the name suggests, as one of the best Strava Alternatives or even better than the Strava app, the TrainingPeaks app helps set a goal and finish it. 

By tracking the gradual progress to planning the training, this app helps to reach the goal. Hence it can be compared to a coach.  In addition, it has many tools for a workout.

When it comes to analysis capabilities, Training Peaks is the winner, hands down.   This app, too, comes in free and paid versions.  The paid version has single workout analysis and longer-term reviews and planning. 

So, if you are want to build a long-term goal spread over several months or want to progress your training year after year, then the TrainingPeaks app is best suited for you.  It has a systematic and structured way by which its features can be fully used effectively.

Features:-

• Comprehensive training tools with a coach like features
• Goal-oriented with workout plans
• Has training diary-type features for recording data, tracking the progress, and analyzing it

Pros:-

• Maintains a good record of your data which helps have a continuous record for training
• Synchronization with other robust analysis tools such as WKO5 and Golden Cheetah
• Provides robust analysis of both workouts and a long-term training period in the dashboard section

Cons:-

• No social media connectivity
• Expensive when compared with similar apps

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

5. Runkeeper

The Runkeeper is yet another Strava alternatives for those who prefer working indoors.  It is suitable for running as it has audio updates for time, distance, pace maintained, and calories burnt. 

There is a stopwatch provided to track the treadmill time.  Its popularity can be gauged from its having received 4.8 /5 stars in the App store.

ZDNet praised the Runkeeper as the best Apple Watch running app.  The best part is that this app connects with Google Maps as well. The Runkeeper app is better than the Strava App as it has flexible running logs to add runs manually.

While Run Keeper is free, the paid version of Runkeeper Go has personalized coaching plans based on your goals, schedule, and running ability. The Runkeeper Go provides in-depth stats and insights to track the progress.

Features:-

• Easy to use with manual addition of runs facility
• Tracks pace, time, and distance with calories burnt
• Easy connectivity with Google Maps

Pros:-

• User-friendly to all, whether you’re a beginner or regular runner
• It tracks running, walking, biking, hiking, and another type of exercises
• Features include setting goals like increasing pace, losing weight.
• In-app challenges, virtual groups, and exercise awards provide the needed motivation
• It easily integrates with Apple Music, Spotify and vocalizes various stats while on the go.

Cons:-

• Since it is not as famous as Strava, the Runkeeper community is tiny

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

6. Komoot: Your route to adventure

The Komoot app has an extra edge over other alternatives to the Strava app in that it offers details about elevation trails and road types.

The purpose, to is different. It is to assist those who go off-grid or offline. It is ideally suited for those who prefer the outdoors and remote locations.

It has complete data so that users can plan their trips as per the terrain conditions, such as hiking terrain. The best part is that a new route location can be entered into Komoot’s system for others to use. 

The road cycling routing sticks to bigger roads. For those interested in walking, there’s a routine for that as well.

Features:-

• Complete terrain data and map new routes
• Excellent for offline use and outdoor suitability
• It gives a breakdown of different surfaces around the route
• Powerful routing engine with good turn by turn navigation

Pros:-

• Both a desktop and mobile app
• It offers a lot of curated content and a more sophisticated routing engine
• Offline mapping and navigation
• Voice guidance

Cons:-

• The free version has only one region provision
• Not suitable for community sharing
• Curated content hard to navigate

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

7. Garmin Connect

Garmin Connect app is a pure app that sticks to its ideals and purpose, which is being a sporty app. Unlike the Strava app, which has slowly turned into a social networking app, the Garmin connect app is specially designed for experienced cyclists. 

It has a trainer-approved package for weekly, monthly, and yearly terms.  Same time, it is also compatible with social networks, wherein your results can be compared with others on the leaderboard.

Features:-

• It is suitable for veteran cyclists and has trainer approved exercise plans for weekly, monthly, and yearly workouts
• Annual statistics and activity tracking feature
• Connects with other similar apps such as MyFitnessPal and Strava
• Active leader board for comparing results

Pros:-

• Real-time tracking of your physical activities
• Compatible with all Garmin wearable devices
• Automatically captures distance statistics, elevations, laps, steps, and specific routes taken

Cons:-

• The battery drains out very fast due to GPS

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

8. RideWithGPS – Bike Route Planning and Navigation

The unique feature of the RideWithGPS app is that it comes with different modes. One mode is for mapping the route, and another is to search for a specific area by distance and elevation. 

The map can be loaded onto various devices before setting off on your cycling trip.  It is also browser-based, so it is compatible with smartphones.

However, because of its web-based nature, navigation may seem a hassle.  The upside is that it has the fitness tracking feature with details showing calories burnt, heart rate, etc., making it one of the popular apps for cyclists.

In short, it offers excellent solutions. The free version comes with weekly, monthly schedules and gear functionality and durability.

The basic version of this app is more than enough for cyclists as a regime can be maintained for the activity center.  It offers exciting gear functionality and phone support if needed.  

You can also keep track of miles done with different types of bikes to assess their durability. The paid version has more fitness tools and attractive features such as hydration levels and body fat tracking like other apps.

The paid version offers the ability to track split time. If you prefer to focus on interval training, then the paid version is recommended.

The physical shape can be improved by monitoring body fat, weight, and hydration levels with extra fitness functionalities. Notably, the paid version allows full access to future improvisations, which are released now and then.

Features:-

• Fitness support
• Tracks gear durability and search function to find routes
• Entering personal details such as the number of calories required to burn etc., can be added. This feature is handy for those using cycling to lose weight.
• Connectivity to Garmin GPS
• Works in browsers and the app. Synchronizes with Garmin GPS devices

Pros:-

• Offers the best solution for customization options
• Routes can be saved in files such as.TCX and.GPX
• Additional information such as gear info, type of bike, and photos of the route and gear can be added to the routes
• Fitness options such as adding various heart rate zones to estimate the effort required can be added
• It comes with phone support and works with a search function to find routes

Cons:-

• Offline routes are limited, and navigation is complicated
• Users have reported some functional problems
• No, undo function if some routes are deleted accidentally

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

9. ZOMBIES, RUN

Do not be put off with the name. It is just the opposite. Unlike other Strava alternatives, Zombies, Run!  is a lighthearted app to motivate you to run. The motivation is provided through various missions, which must be completed each time you run. 

This app is heavy on the audio element, so it works best with headphones for audio cues.  As the name indicates, you will be compelled to run faster as if chased by zombies.  Also, the app has features to share your achievements and create your training missions.

Features:-

• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Fitness training suck as 5K run
• It has a game-like feature with storylines for needed motivation and fun

Pros:-

• Every run is treated as a mission
• Immersive audio drama giving the feeling of adventure
• It works on treadmills and anywhere and at any speed

Cons:-

• The size of the app is considerable
• Requires constant internet connection

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

10. RGT Cycling

The RGT Cycling App is just another one of the best Strava alternatives suited for indoor cycling during pandemic times. It, however, gives a very genuine feel of riding outdoors.

This app is compatible with Windows and iOS, and Apple TV.  There is a library of training programs to choose from and customize it to suit your requirements. The app tracks the power, cadence, and heart rate. There is the free and paid version of the app.

Features:-

• Entirely indoors app with authentic roads for an immersive training session
• Many terrain options are available
• Compatible with many other systems and can chat with fellow bikers

Pros:-

• Available for Android and iOS devices
• Connects the devices to the virtual world
• Chat with other riders on the platform and create, join group rides and races
• Manage your training
• Connect with other apps such as Strava and Training Peaks

Cons:-

• Different road varieties are available in the premium version only
• Resolution is affected based on the device quality

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

11. Zwift

Very similar to RGT Cycling, the Zwift app is also the best alternative for Strava.  It has a running option as well, unlike its closest competitor RGT Cycling. 

It supports iOS and Android devices and is an immersive app that gives exercising in real life. There are speed, power, cadence, and distance tracking systems. 

You can even give thumbs up to other people’s accomplishments. One major drawback is that while the app appeals to cyclists and runners, the cycling option is accessible only during the free trial period of 15 days.  However, the running option feature is free.

Features:-

• Immersive indoor cycling experience
• Compatible with iOS and Android devices
• Free running option and 
• Ideally suited for socializing

Pros:-

• It is a turbo trainer game 
• It can be linked with a computer, iPad, or Apple TV
• Can access workouts designed by professional coaches, which can be completed in groups

Cons:-

• Needs time to get used to the app
• The cycling option is not free

Download App on Google Play Store

Download App on Apple App Store

Final Verdict

Discussed above are just some of the best Strava alternatives. Each app has its unique feature, which is not available in other apps. 

So as a final verdict, it is difficult to zero in one app which suits all types of activities.  However, the one app which comes closest to being the Strava alternative is the Garmin Connect.

It is helpful for those who are interested in cycling and casual riding outdoors.  Its plus points are its efficient tracing systems and its trainer-approved training plan. 

The Runkeeper app is the best suited for those who lean towards running as it is straightforward and suitable for outdoor and indoor running.

Since it is difficult to pinpoint the best Strava alternative, it is advised to go through the features of the apps in detail and then select the one which suits you best. 

Then you will be able to derive the best benefit out of the app, and it will serve its purpose well. So, consider the app that suits your requirements, your interest, your body, and your routine.  

By taking the time to study the features and then deciding on the best Strava app alternative, you will have the most exciting and refreshing time of your life without any hassles.  

So, continue in your steps to a healthier and productive way of life by having an excellent fitness platform to motivate and prod you to a healthier life in the coming days.