MapMyRun to Strava: Transferring Activity Data, Sync Tools, and Best Practices

Can you transfer map my run to Strava?

Yes, it is generally possible to transfer your activity data from MapMyRun to Strava, primarily through exporting files from MapMyRun and importing them into Strava, or by utilizing various third-party synchronization tools designed for this purpose.

Understanding Data Transfer Between Fitness Platforms

In the evolving landscape of digital fitness tracking, users often find themselves navigating a multitude of platforms, each offering unique features, communities, and analytical tools. The desire to consolidate training data, switch primary platforms, or leverage specific functionalities (like Strava's robust social network and segment analysis) frequently leads to the need for data transfer. Understanding the mechanisms behind this process, including common file formats and synchronization methods, is crucial for maintaining an accurate and comprehensive record of your athletic endeavors.

Direct Export from MapMyRun and Import to Strava (Manual Method)

The most straightforward, albeit often manual, method involves exporting individual activity files from MapMyRun and then importing them directly into Strava. This method provides granular control over which activities are transferred but can be time-consuming for large historical datasets.

• Step 1: Exporting Activities from MapMyRun

  • Access Your Activities: Log in to your MapMyRun account via a web browser (this functionality is typically not available through the mobile app).
  • Select an Activity: Navigate to your "Dashboard" or "Training Log" and click on the specific activity you wish to export.
  • Locate Export Option: On the activity details page, look for an "Export" or "Download" button, often represented by a gear icon or a dropdown menu.
  • Choose File Format: Select a compatible file format. GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is excellent for route data, while TCX (Training Center XML) or FIT (Flexible and Interoperable Data Transfer) files offer richer data, including heart rate, cadence, and power, if recorded. TCX is generally preferred for comprehensive data transfer.
  • Save the File: Download the chosen file to your computer. Remember that MapMyRun typically allows exporting one activity at a time, making bulk export challenging.

• Step 2: Importing Activities into Strava

  • Log In to Strava: Access your Strava account through a web browser.
  • Initiate Upload: In the top right corner of the Strava interface, click the "+" icon (often labeled "Upload Activity").
  • Select File Upload: Choose the "File" option from the upload menu.
  • Browse and Select File: Click "Browse" and navigate to the GPX, TCX, or FIT file you previously exported from MapMyRun.
  • Review and Save: Strava will process the file. Review the activity details (distance, time, map, etc.) to ensure accuracy. Make any necessary edits to the activity name, type, or privacy settings, then click "Save Activity."
  • Repeat as Needed: For multiple activities, you will need to repeat this export and import process for each one.

Utilizing Third-Party Synchronization Tools

For users with extensive activity histories or those seeking an automated solution, third-party synchronization services offer a more efficient way to transfer data between platforms. These tools connect to your accounts via API (Application Programming Interface) and facilitate the transfer, often handling bulk historical data and ongoing new activity synchronization.

• Popular Synchronization Services:

  • RunGap (iOS): A highly-rated iOS app that can connect to numerous fitness services, including MapMyRun and Strava, allowing for seamless import and export of activities. It supports historical data transfer and often provides rich data fidelity.
  • SyncMyTracks (Android): Similar to RunGap, this Android application specializes in synchronizing activities between various platforms, offering a robust solution for MapMyRun to Strava transfers.
  • Tapiriik (Web-based): A versatile web service that can synchronize data across many fitness platforms. While it often operates on a donation-based model, it's a powerful tool for one-time bulk transfers and ongoing syncs. Users connect their MapMyRun and Strava accounts, and Tapiriik handles the data flow.
  • HealthFit (iOS): While primarily focused on extracting data from Apple Health, HealthFit can also act as an intermediary, allowing you to export activities that originated in MapMyRun (if integrated with Apple Health) and then import them into Strava. This is a more indirect route but can be useful within the Apple ecosystem.

• General Process for Third-Party Tools:

  • Account Connection: Authorize the third-party tool to access your MapMyRun and Strava accounts. This typically involves logging into each service through the synchronization app's interface.
  • Configuration: Specify the direction of the sync (e.g., MapMyRun to Strava) and whether to transfer historical data or just new activities.
  • Initiate Sync: Start the synchronization process. The tool will then fetch activities from MapMyRun and push them to Strava.
  • Verification: After the sync, log into your Strava account to verify that all activities have transferred correctly and that all data points (GPS, heart rate, power) are intact.

Considerations and Best Practices for Data Migration

While data transfer is generally reliable, certain factors can influence the success and accuracy of the migration.

• Data Integrity and Accuracy: Always cross-reference a few transferred activities between MapMyRun and Strava to ensure that distance, pace, elevation, and other metrics are consistent. Discrepancies can occur due to differing algorithms for processing raw GPS data.
• File Format Choice: When manually exporting, prioritize TCX or FIT files over GPX if you want to preserve richer performance data (heart rate, cadence, power). GPX is excellent for routes but may strip out some physiological metrics.
• Historical Data Volume: For large archives of activities, third-party synchronization tools are far more practical than manual individual exports. Be aware that some free versions of these tools may have limitations on historical data transfer.
• Privacy Settings: After transferring data, especially with third-party tools, double-check your privacy settings on Strava to ensure activities are visible only to your intended audience (e.g., "Everyone," "Followers," or "Only You").
• Platform-Specific Features: Some unique data points or features specific to MapMyRun (e.g., certain gear tracking details or custom workout types) may not transfer perfectly or be fully recognized by Strava.
• API Changes: Fitness platforms occasionally update their APIs, which can temporarily disrupt third-party synchronization services. If you encounter issues, check the status pages of the sync tool and the respective platforms.

Why Migrate? The Benefits of Consolidating Data on Strava

The effort involved in migrating data often stems from the compelling advantages Strava offers to a dedicated fitness community.

• Robust Social Network: Strava excels as a social platform for athletes, offering segments, leaderboards, clubs, and the ability to give "kudos" and comments, fostering a strong sense of community and motivation.
• Advanced Performance Analytics: Strava provides in-depth analysis of your training, including detailed segment performance, fitness & freshness (with Summit), power curve analysis, and comprehensive training logs.
• Wider Device and App Integration: Strava boasts an extensive ecosystem of integrations with GPS watches, cycling computers, power meters, and other third-party apps, making it a central hub for all your athletic data.
• Motivational Features: Challenges, virtual races, and personal records (PRs) on segments provide continuous motivation and opportunities for improvement.
• Segment Exploration: The unique "segments" feature allows you to compete against yourself and others on specific stretches of road or trail, adding a competitive and exploratory element to your runs and rides.

Conclusion: Streamlining Your Fitness Tracking

Transferring your activity data from MapMyRun to Strava is a well-established process, offering flexibility through both manual file export/import and automated third-party synchronization services. By understanding the available methods and exercising best practices for data integrity, athletes can successfully consolidate their training history, unlock Strava's powerful analytical and social features, and streamline their overall fitness tracking experience. This migration empowers you to centralize your performance data, providing a more comprehensive and engaging overview of your athletic journey.