Runner warns others not to be 'manipulated' by misleading Strava timings
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A runner has urged others not to be 'manipulated' by seemingly impressive Strava results that may not tell the full story.
Stomper Aaron said he wants to raise awareness about how some users could appear to have much faster times by stopping their watches mid-run.
"I'm just sharing how not to be manipulated or depressed when people share their personal best or sudden improved timing on Strava," Aaron told Stomp.
He pointed out that the differences between average pace, moving time and elapsed time can reveal whether a runner paused their tracking to rest.
"Notice the difference? A few minutes' gap usually means stopping at traffic lights. But a vast difference means you've stopped your watch and rested, then continued running when you're done resting," he explained.
Aaron advised runners to take note of the elapsed time when reviewing others' results, especially when the timing seems too good to be true.
"Don't be easily manipulated. If you're really that good, join an event with an official time," he added.
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