Tracking Your Progress: Using Apps and Gadgets Effectively
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For the woman who wants to see how far she’s come—literally.
You don’t need fancy tech to ride a bike.
But… a little tracking can go a long way in helping you stay motivated, see your progress, and even have more fun.
Let’s walk through the easiest ways to start tracking your rides—and the best beginner-friendly gadgets and apps to help you do it.
Why Track Your Rides?
You don’t have to obsess over stats.
But tracking gives you three superpowers:
- Motivation: It’s exciting to watch those miles (or minutes) add up.
- Accountability: Seeing progress makes you more likely to ride again tomorrow.
- Data = Decisions: You’ll know what works for your body, your schedule, and your goals.
Even casual cyclists deserve to feel proud of their effort.
Start with a Simple App
No bike computer? No problem.
Your phone is your best tool when you’re starting out. Here are some great apps that are friendly, free (or low-cost), and beginner-approved:
1. Strava
- Tracks your rides via GPS
- Logs speed, distance, elevation
- Fun “social” features to follow friends
Download on iOS or Android
2. MapMyRide by Under Armour
- Great for mapping routes ahead of time
- Tracks pace, distance, and calories burned
- Free version works fine for basics
Check it out here
3. Komoot
- Ideal for trail and adventure riders
- Offers voice navigation and elevation planning
- Great for exploring new areas
Visit Komoot
Want to Go Next Level? Try a Bike Computer
If you’re not into using your phone while riding, a basic bike computer can be a game changer.
They mount to your handlebars and track everything from speed to heart rate. And you don’t have to worry about battery life or notifications from the school group chat mid-ride.
Starter-friendly picks:
- Garmin Edge 130 Plus – small, easy, and not overwhelming
- Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt – more features if you’re feeling fancy
- CooSpo Wireless Bike Computer – super budget-friendly and simple
Fitness Watches (If You Already Own One)
If you have a Fitbit, Apple Watch, or Garmin watch, you’re good to go.
Just make sure your watch has a cycling mode, and press start before you ride.
These watches also track:
- Heart rate
- Calories burned
- Steps and other daily activity
Bonus? They look cute, too.
Try the Fitbit Inspire 3 if you’re not into clunky tech but still want solid data.
Don’t Forget: A Phone Mount Helps A Lot
If you’re using an app to track your rides, keeping your phone visible is super helpful (and safe).
We love:
- Roam Bike Phone Mount – budget-friendly and works for most handlebars
- Quad Lock Mount – secure, sleek, and great for bumpy rides
Final Thoughts
Tracking your rides shouldn’t feel like homework.
It’s just another way to celebrate what your body is doing—whether you biked 0.5 miles with a toddler or crushed a 10-mile trail before breakfast.
Start simple.
Use what you already have.
And keep pedaling forward.
