Whether you’re exploring new trails or navigating a big race day, our Follow a Route feature helps you stay on track — literally.
This guide will walk you through how to follow a route on your Apple Watch using the Runna app and Strava, as well as how to access maps offline and troubleshoot common issues.
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Apple Watch running watchOS 11 or higher
The Runna Apple Watch app downloaded
Make sure your Apple Watch is connected to your mobile Runna app
A Strava Premium account
A Strava route
Step 1: Connect Your Strava Account
Open the Runna app on your phone and follow these steps:
Go to the Plan tab
Select Strava and connect (or reconnect) your account
Step 2: Add a Route to Your Workout
Choose a planned or instant workout in your Runna plan
Tap Add Route
Select one of your Strava routes from the list
Step 3: Start the Workout on Your Apple Watch
Open the Runna app on your Apple Watch
Select the workout that has the route attached
Tap Start Workout
Step 4: View the Map During Your Run
Scroll the Digital Crown upward on your Apple Watch during your run to reveal the map view. From here, you’ll see your position and route overlay.
Optional: Interact With the Map
To interact with the map (e.g., zoom or pan), tap the pointing finger icon to enable touch gestures.
We added this step to avoid accidental map movement from rain, sweat, or wrist brushes — so swipe controls and workout screens stay intact.
Touch interaction disabled:
Touch interaction enabled:
When enabled, you'll be able to click, zoom, and pan around your route directly from your device. Have a look at what's ahead, or review where you've been.
Don’t Want a Route? You Can Still View the Map
If you haven’t added a specific route but still want to see the map:
On your Apple Watch, open the Runna app
Swipe left and scroll to Maps & Navigation
Toggle Show Map to ON
Offline Map Support (Apple Maps)
Even when running offline, you can view your route or map, here’s how:
Download the offline map in Apple Maps on your iPhone
In Apple Maps settings, sync the offline map to your Apple Watch
Enable Location Services for both Apple Maps and Runna
Once synced, your route will appear even without signal during your run.
Troubleshooting Tips
Can’t See Your Strava Route in the Runna App?
Reconnect your Strava account
Check for app and watchOS updates
Map Won’t Appear When Scrolling the Crown?
Confirm you’re on watchOS 11 or higher
Test your Digital Crown in another app
Restart the Runna app
Map Not Loading Offline?
Confirm the map was fully downloaded and synced via Apple Maps
Ensure Location Services are enabled
Restart your iPhone and Apple Watch
You’re Ready to Explore
Run with confidence knowing you’ll stay on route—whether you’re racing, adventuring, or simply trying a new loop.
Not using Runna yet? Download the app and start your two-week free trial today.
Need help? Reach out to the Runna support team anytime. We’re here to help you get the most out of your training.