Free Strava alternative
A free Strava alternative that tracks your gym training too.
If you left Strava because the features you used moved behind a paywall, here's the honest comparison — and the gym log you didn't expect.
Side by side
The honest comparison
Verified against Strava's official Subscription Features help center and pricing, June 2026. Facts, not trash talk.
| Feature | Activ.run | Strava |
|---|---|---|
| GPS run tracking | Free | Free |
| Basic stats (distance, pace, time, elevation) | Free | Free |
| Gym / strength logging | Built in | Limited |
| Heart-rate zones | Free | Subscriber-only |
| Route creation / suggested routes | Free | Subscriber-only |
| Segment leaderboards / live segments | Not a focus | Subscriber-only |
| Training analysis (fitness / freshness, log) | Free progress views | Subscriber-only |
| Training plans | On roadmap | Subscriber-only |
| Device sync (Garmin, etc.) / import | Yes | Yes (free) |
| Price for full features | Free core | ~$7.99–11.99/mo · $79.99/yr (US) |
The hybrid argument
Same runs, plus your lifts
You don't give up run tracking to switch — GPS, pace, and heart-rate zones are all here. What you gain is your gym training in the same app: sets, reps, PRs, and estimated 1RM, instead of paying for a second subscription.
- Keep tracking runs with GPS, pace, and HR zones
- Add your lifts in the same history, same app
- One free core instead of two subscriptions
Fair is fair
What you give up, honestly
Strava's social network is far larger, and its segment leaderboards and huge community feed are things a focused tracker doesn't replicate. Its free tier also covers GPS recording, the feed, kudos, and basic stats perfectly well. If those are what keep you there, Strava is a fine choice. But if what pushed you to look was paying for route building, training analysis, and heart-rate zones — Activ.run keeps those in the free core, and adds your gym training in the same app.
Strava-switch FAQ
Common questions
Is Activ.run really free?
The core is free — GPS run tracking, live pace and distance, basic stats, heart-rate zones, and gym logging. There is no subscription wall on the everyday features.
Can I import my Strava runs?
Yes. Strava integration is supported, and you can also import FIT files from your watch, so your existing history comes with you.
Does it track gym workouts too?
Yes — that's the difference. Alongside running, Activ.run logs sets, reps, PRs, and estimated 1RM, so you don't need a second app or a second subscription.
Is it on Android?
Yes, Activ.run is live on Google Play. iOS is not available yet.
Where to next
Two pillars, one app
Same runs, plus your lifts.
Without the annual fee. One app for the whole training week, free on Google Play.