Strava takes aim at Garmin with a race-time prediction tool built for real runners

Strava launches Performance Predictions feature

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/ T3)

Strava has just rolled out a new subscriber-only feature called Performance Predictions, and it’s clearly designed to take on the likes of Garmin, Polar and Coros in the race prediction game.

Tapping into the mountain of user data generated by the nearly 1 billion runs recorded on Strava in 2024 alone, the new feature gives runners personalised finish time estimates for key race distances: 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon.

The brand says the idea behind the feature is to help runners train with more clarity, adjust their pacing plans, and line up on race day with a realistic sense of what they’re capable of.

If that sounds familiar, that’s because brands like Garmin have offered race predictions for years.

However, Strava’s take on the concept is dynamic, powered by machine learning and built around your actual training, including rest days.

It’s another clear signal of Strava’s ambitions to become more than just a social fitness app.

Between Runna’s coaching smarts and Strava’s performance data, we could be looking at the early days of an all-in-one digital training platform to rival your running watch.

How to access Strava’s Performance Predictions

If you're a Strava subscriber, you’ll find the new Performance Predictions feature under the Progress tab in the app.

Just tap into your latest stats and scroll to view projected finish times for a 5K, 10K, Half marathon (13.1 miles) and Marathon (26.2 miles).

Your predictions will update automatically every time you log a run; no manual input or settings required.

The estimates will reflect your current fitness level, adjusting if you increase mileage, taper, or take a break.

You can sign up for Strava for free. You need to have a Strava Membership to access Performance Predictions.

Matt Kollat is a journalist and content creator for T3.com and T3 Magazine, where he works as Active Editor. His areas of expertise include wearables, drones, action cameras, fitness equipment, nutrition and outdoor gear. He joined T3 in 2019.

His work has also appeared on TechRadar and Fit&Well, and he has collaborated with creators such as Garage Gym Reviews. Matt has served as a judge for multiple industry awards, including the ESSNAwards. When he isn’t running, cycling or testing new kit, he’s usually roaming the countryside with a camera or experimenting with new audio and video gear.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.