In a move that signals growing investor confidence in fitness-driven social platforms, Strava, the 16-year-old fitness tracking company, is preparing to go public, according to reports by the Financial Times.

Chief Executive Officer Michael Martin confirmed that the San Francisco–based firm plans to list its shares “at some point,” noting that the public offering would help raise capital for future acquisitions. The company, which is backed by Sequoia Capital, TCV, and Jackson Square Ventures, was last valued at $2.2 billion in May.

The momentum behind Strava appears undeniable. Data from Sensor Tower reveals that the platform now boasts 50 million monthly active users in 2025—nearly double that of its closest rival—with downloads rising by 80% year-over-year.

This surge aligns with a broader cultural shift, especially among Gen Z, as young people increasingly seek alcohol-free and wellness-centered social spaces. For many, running clubs have replaced dating apps as hubs for building community, improving mental health, and occasionally finding romance. Reflecting this trend, applications for the 2026 London Marathon rose 31% this year, reaching 1.1 million participants.

Strava’s growing appeal lies in its ability to transform workouts into social currency. Its platform encourages engagement through “kudos,” leaderboard challenges, and detailed activity comparisons. According to Sensor Tower, users spent more than $180 million on Strava’s subscription services through September—though the company maintains that the estimate significantly understates actual revenue.

Beyond subscriptions, Strava also generates income from sponsored challenges and brand collaborations, solidifying its position at the intersection of fitness, technology, and community.

As it edges closer to an IPO, Strava’s story underscores how digital wellness is reshaping social interaction—where friendships, motivation, and even romance are increasingly found not in swipes, but in shared miles.

Source: Techcrunch