We all know how powerful social networks like Strava can be for staying motivated, tracking progress, and connecting with other runners. But have you ever noticed how demotivated you feel when your run isn’t recorded? Or worse, when your run stops tracking mid-training, and suddenly, finishing feels pointless? There’s been a lot of discussion about how social networks impact mental health, and Strava is no exception. A recent study (link) highlights how Strava users often feel motivated to train and connect with other runners, but it also reveals a darker side. Many users experience anxiety about their performance—pace, distance, or even how their runs are perceived by others. One of the most interesting findings was how professional or semi-professional runners use the app. They’re more likely to hide data they consider “undesirable” or add excuses (like running with a slower partner) to justify what they see as “bad” workouts. This shows how deeply Strava can influence our perception of success and failure. Remember, your Strava profile is just a curated snapshot of your training—not a complete picture of your progress or worth as a runner. It’s okay to have off days, slow runs, or even runs that don’t get recorded. What matters is showing up for yourself, whether or not the app is watching. If you’ve never tried it, I highly recommend !👇 ( try it on your easy day run ) ✔️Leave the gadgets at home. Just for one run, ditch the watch or phone. ✔️Focus on how you feel. Pay attention to your breathing, your stride, and your surroundings. ✔️Let go of expectations. This run isn’t about pace or distance—it’s about enjoying the process. 😌 Reflect afterward. How did it feel to run without tracking? Did you notice anything new about your body or mindset? If you’re interested, I can also share some specific training tips on how to do tempo or interval sessions without controlling pace—and still be able to analyze the data afterward.