Why I stopped using Strava

I was always a runner. I will always be a runner. Tech trends, styles, and dynamics will always change. Run groups are a thing now.

Strava was great for making mundane activities into segments where I could try to be the fastest on some obscure part of the route, aggregating all of my run and bike data, and of course helping for some competitive motivation.

But that was a phase for me that isn’t serving how running serves me. It turned running into tracking, optimizing, and showing off instead of running with soul and out of necessity. I like running because I often get so worked up that it is hard for me to function without moving first. So no more logging in, recording, or fancy photos for me - for the time being.

I have gone from wearing expensive GPS watches and stacking virtual trophies to a basic watch with a glance at the time to start running. I no longer worry if I have service and try to not have an excuse to check my phone. Posting here with as little fluff as possible helps me have some social accountability.