How Runna’s Laser Focus Led to Its Successful Acquisition by Strava

Since being founded in 2020 and launched in 2022, Runna has rapidly grown into one of the largest and most popular running apps in the world, using AI to give runners personalized training plans that adapt to their unique needs.

The key to Runna’s success has been building features that adapt to each runner to provide them with hyperpersonalized experiences, including pacing tips, real-time audio feedback, and dynamic goals that change based on performance.

Once Runna had product/market fit, it built an ambassador program and focused on creating strong relationships with runners, both online through UGC on channels like TikTok and Instagram, as well as offline at races and other events.

Runna has deliberately crafted an aspirational brand at a premium price point, which has influenced its ad creatives, product positioning, new user onboarding experience, and approach to free trials and discounts.

As a result of its rapid growth, Runna was recently acquired by Strava, which has provided the company with additional resources, expanded its reach, and unlocked all sorts of additional growth opportunities.