Strava IPO: Running Clubs Surge as Gen Z Shifts from Dating Apps

Strava's Imminent IPO

According to reports from the Financial Times, Strava, a fitness-tracking application established 16 years ago, is preparing for an initial public offering.

Michael Martin, the company’s CEO, communicated to the FT that the San Francisco-based organization intends to become publicly listed “at some point” in the future.

This move is aimed at securing additional capital to facilitate further acquisitions. The company currently benefits from backing by prominent venture capital firms including Sequoia Capital, TCV, and Jackson Square Ventures.

Valuation and User Growth

As of May, Strava’s most recent valuation stood at $2.2 billion. The company is experiencing a period of substantial growth.

Data from Sensor Tower indicates that Strava’s user base has expanded to 50 million monthly active users in 2025. This represents almost a doubling of its closest competitor’s numbers.

Furthermore, app downloads have increased by 80% compared to the previous year.

Cultural Trends and Marathon Applications

Strava’s growth is occurring alongside a broader cultural trend towards running. This is particularly noticeable among younger demographics.

Individuals in their teens and twenties are increasingly seeking alternative, alcohol-free social activities. Running provides opportunities for building support networks and even forming romantic relationships.

The popularity of running is reflected in a significant increase in marathon applications. Applications for the 2026 London Marathon rose by 31% this year, reaching a total of 1.1 million.

Key Features and Revenue Streams

A core element of Strava’s success lies in its ability to transform workouts into a form of social interaction. Features like “kudos” and split comparisons encourage engagement.

Sensor Tower estimates that consumers have spent over $180 million on Strava’s subscription service as of September. However, Strava itself asserts that this figure is a conservative estimate of their actual revenue.

The company also generates income through sponsored challenges and strategic partnerships with various brands.