Strava Prepares for IPO as Gen Z Swaps Dating Apps for Social Running Clubs
Strava, the 16-year-old fitness tracking and social running app, is reportedly preparing to go public, according to the Financial Times.
CEO Michael Martin confirmed that the San Francisco-based company plans to pursue an initial public offering (IPO) “at some point,” aiming to raise capital for further acquisitions and global expansion. Strava is backed by major investors including Sequoia Capital, TCV, and Jackson Square Ventures, and was most recently valued at $2.2 billion in May.
Momentum is clearly on Strava’s side. The app’s global user base has surged to 50 million monthly active users in 2025, nearly doubling its closest competitor, according to data from Sensor Tower. Downloads have grown by 80% year-over-year, underscoring the company’s growing influence in the fitness and social networking space.
Strava’s rise also reflects a broader cultural shift among Gen Z, as younger users increasingly trade nights out and dating apps for alcohol-free social activities like running and group fitness. Many runners highlight not only the physical benefits of the sport but also its mental health and community advantages—including opportunities for new friendships and even romance. In fact, applications for the 2026 London Marathon rose 31% this year to a record 1.1 million participants.
Strava’s unique appeal lies in its ability to transform workouts into social engagement, allowing users to earn “kudos,” compare splits, and join local clubs or global challenges. According to Sensor Tower, consumers have spent more than $180 million on Strava’s subscription service through September 2025—a figure the company says underestimates its true revenue. In addition to subscriptions, Strava generates income from sponsored challenges and brand partnerships with leading fitness and apparel companies.
As the line between fitness and social networking continues to blur, Strava’s focus on community-driven exercise experiences may prove to be its greatest advantage going into a potential IPO.
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