A training log can be extremely helpful for your running training. Depending on what you want to use the logbook for, Strava can offer you a whole host of different tools and features to help you. Below we highlight some of Strava's features.
Running amount
One of the basic ideas behind recording your training in a training log is that you get an easier overview of how much training you have done - i.e. how many km or minutes per week you have run over the various weeks.
An overview of your running amount gives you a better chance to train sensibly and productively. One of the essential elements for both optimising training output and reducing your risk of injury is that generally you should try to avoid excessively large variations in your amount of running from week to week.
Running motivation
Now hopefully it's not just Strava that motivates you to run, but the social aspect is something which Strava is brilliant at. You can follow your friends and they can follow you. Not only do you have the chance to follow each and every training you do, but you can also comment on each other's training sessions, and even compete in different segments (read more about segments below).
You can also create groups/clubs on Strava, where you can write with each other, as well as compete on who has trained the most.
"Social anchoring" is one of the most important factors behehind retaining people in sport. So, it can be a great motivation for you knowing that you are part of an online training community. Strava makes this possible.
Strava Segments
Segments are essentially routes created by Strava users. These are often defined by a to-and-from points in the landscape – for example, from the bottom to the top of a hill or something similar. When you run these segments, you automatically participate in the "competition", and the fastest runner on the segment is awarded a segment crown.
Segments can add a fun twist to your running training, but be careful to ensure that the hunt for a segment doesn't negatively affect your training. If you need a quiet jog, then of course it doesn't make too much sense to rush off to win a segment crown halfway along your route.
Use the segments wisely, and fit them into your training when possible; and remember the fun element - this is supposed to add fun and motivation to your everyday training routine!
Premium Features
Strava is free to be a member of, but like most things it is possible to access extra features buy paying a fee.
Strava continuously adjusts these features, but some of the things you can get are, for example, different forms of overviews of your form development based on the training data you upload.
In addition to form development, there are also analysis options both for individual training sessions and overall.
Another premium feature is the route function; just like, for example, Garmin Connect, where you can create routes on Strava (as a premium member) via the Strava route map. There are both advantages and disadvantages to Strava's route map versus, for example, Garmin's, and it is impossible to say which platform is best.
However, one of the advantages of Strava's map is that you can view the various segments on the route map, which naturally makes it must easier to plan your route if you plan on passing by a segment you want to compete in.
Summary
Strava is one of the biggest names in the world of training logs. This means that there is a fairly high probability that your friends are also on the platform, which gives you an even better chance of getting the most out of the social aspect of Strava, and thus increasing your motivation.
The segments are a fun kick-start to your training, but make sure they don't take over from your usual running training.
If you just want to have your very own training log, there are also other options - including e.g. Garmin Connect, Training Peaks and Final Surge.
