This October 27, a vast investigation by World revealed that the Strava platform had made it possible to track Emmanuel Macron’s movements. In question, its public use by members of the Security Group for the Presidency of the Republic (GSPR), which revealed the location of the president in real time. But what exactly is Strava?
Founded in 2009 by Mark Gainey and Michael Horvath, Strava differs from traditional sports applications by its social dimension, allowing users to interact with each other. They can follow each other, comment on their respective activities, distribute “ kudos » (the equivalent of “ I like ), and even create virtual clubs to train together.
Many activities taken into account
Although Strava initially became known among runners and cyclists, the app has significantly expanded its spectrum of activities over time. Running, road cycling, mountain biking, swimming, hiking, skiing, kayaking… More than 30 different sports can now be recorded and analyzed.
Accurate data analysis
For each activity, the platform compiles a multitude of data: distance traveled, elevation gain, average speed, calories burned, but also heart rate and effort level for users equipped with smart watches.
Strava synchronizes with most connected devices on the market (GPS watches, bike computers, heart rate sensors, etc.) and also allows you to record an activity directly via your smartphone. Beyond simple tracking, the platform offers detailed performance analyzes, such as heart rate zones, effort distribution, comparisons with previous outings, etc.
By subscribing to the premium version, users can unlock additional tracking features, as well as personalized workouts.
Strava encourages athletes to surpass themselves
Stravia offers monthly challenges that encourage athletes to surpass themselves, whether in distance covered or elevation gain. Because the platform focuses on the competitive aspect thanks to “ segments “. These sections of course, created by users, become real competition grounds where everyone can try to achieve the best time. The rankings for each segment evolve in real time.
A considerable gain in popularity during the pandemic
Strava’s popularity has exploded during Covid-19. It grew from 28 million users in 2017 to 55 million in 2020. As of December 2020, the company was valued at $1.5 billion, a significant jump from 2019’s $300 million.
Since then, Strava has continued its rise. Its revenues reached $220 million in 2022, as well as an estimated $275 million in 2023. It had no less than 120 million users last year, across 190 countries around the world.
