What To Know
- Running on a treadmill can be a convenient and efficient way to stay active, especially during inclement weather or when time is limited.
- This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to add treadmill elevation to Strava, ensuring you get credit for your hard-earned uphill efforts.
- If you prefer an automated solution, the Strava Elevation Correction Tool or a third-party app can save you time and effort.
Running on a treadmill can be a convenient and efficient way to stay active, especially during inclement weather or when time is limited. However, one challenge with treadmill running is accurately tracking elevation gain. Strava, a popular fitness tracking app, allows you to record your runs and view elevation data, but it doesn’t automatically capture elevation gain from treadmill workouts. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to add treadmill elevation to Strava, ensuring you get credit for your hard-earned uphill efforts.
Understanding Treadmill Elevation
Before adding elevation to Strava, it’s important to understand how treadmills measure elevation. Treadmills typically estimate elevation gain based on the incline angle and the distance traveled. The incline angle is measured in percent, with 1% representing a 1-foot rise for every 100 feet of horizontal distance.
Methods to Add Elevation to Strava
1. Manual Entry
The simplest method is to manually enter the elevation gain after your treadmill run. To do this:
1. Record your run on your treadmill and note the total distance and incline angle.
2. Use a treadmill elevation calculator (available online) to calculate the elevation gain.
3. Open the Strava app or website and log in.
4. Select your treadmill run activity.
5. Click on the “Edit” button.
6. Scroll down to the “Elevation” field and enter the calculated elevation gain.
7. Save the changes.
2. Strava Elevation Correction Tool
Strava provides an Elevation Correction Tool that can automatically adjust the elevation data for your treadmill runs. To use this tool:
1. Enable the “Strava Elevation Correction” setting in your Strava account (Settings > My Account > Elevation Correction).
2. Record your treadmill run on your treadmill.
3. Open the Strava app or website and log in.
4. Select your treadmill run activity.
5. Click on the “Elevation Correction” button.
6. The tool will analyze your run data and automatically adjust the elevation gain.
3. Third-Party Apps
Several third-party apps can help you automatically add elevation to your treadmill runs. These apps typically use Bluetooth or ANT+ to connect to your treadmill and capture incline data. Popular apps include:
- Runkeeper
- MapMyRun
- Zwift
Choosing the Best Method
The best method for adding elevation to Strava depends on your preferences and equipment. If you don’t have a compatible treadmill or third-party app, manual entry is a straightforward option. If you prefer an automated solution, the Strava Elevation Correction Tool or a third-party app can save you time and effort.
Tips for Accurate Elevation Tracking
- Ensure your treadmill is properly calibrated.
- Enter the incline angle accurately when using the manual entry method.
- Use a treadmill elevation calculator that accounts for the specific characteristics of your treadmill.
- If using a third-party app, make sure it is compatible with your treadmill and Strava.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with adding elevation to Strava, try the following:
- Check that your Strava account has the Elevation Correction setting enabled.
- Restart the Strava app or website.
- Re-sync your treadmill with the third-party app.
- Contact Strava customer support.
The Bottom Line
Adding treadmill elevation to Strava allows you to accurately track your uphill efforts and get credit for your hard work. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your treadmill runs are properly recorded and contribute to your overall fitness goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is it important to add elevation to treadmill runs?
A: Adding elevation to treadmill runs ensures that your Strava data accurately reflects the effort you put in. It allows you to track your progress, compare your runs to others, and set realistic goals.
Q: Can I use a treadmill elevation calculator for all treadmills?
A: No, different treadmills have varying characteristics, so it’s important to use a calculator that accounts for the specific model you are using.
Q: What if my treadmill doesn’t display incline angle?
A: If your treadmill doesn’t display incline angle, you can use a protractor or inclinometer to measure the angle manually. Alternatively, you can contact the treadmill manufacturer for the specifications.
