Strava acquires AI-powered running platform Runna

The definitive agreement combines Strava’s extensive fitness community with Runna’s personalized training capabilities.

Strava CEO Michael Martin stated that following significant growth in 2024, the acquisition of Runna’s tailored training plans was a “perfect fit” to enhance user value.

Runna CEO and co-founder Dom Maskell expressed his team’s enthusiasm for joining Strava, emphasizing their continued focus on delivering highly customized training plans. He added that Strava’s investment will enable further improvements to the Runna platform, benefiting runners globally.

While the acquisition presents potential benefits for both companies, users of both platforms may approach the news with cautious optimism, given the evolving landscape of subscription-based fitness apps.

The recent launch of Garmin Connect+, a subscription platform with AI insights and features behind a paywall, serves as a cautionary example. The successful integration of Strava and Runna will depend on how the two brands manage the transition.

With Garmin’s Connect+ facing criticism, a successful merger of Strava and Runna, offering compelling subscription packages, could create a dominant force in the market.

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In comments to The Verge, Martin indicated that there would be no immediate changes for users. The plan involves further investment in the Runna app and team, with continued operation in an integrated but independent manner.

Martin also suggested that changes could be expected in the coming weeks, while Runna’s Maskell hinted at smoother integration between the two apps for an improved user experience.

Regarding subscription pricing, Martin referenced Strava’s acquisition of Recover Athletics as a potential model, suggesting Runna could be included in Strava’s overall subscription offering. The impact on pricing remains to be seen.

A subtle hint of the acquisition emerged a few days prior when Strava’s CEO responded to a user question about race predictions and dynamic training plans with a wink emoji in a r/Strava QnA.