Abstract
This study examined the associations between the use of Strava, an online activity tracking service that includes a social networking component, and the physical and mental well-being of athletes. Although social networks can provide motivation and reinforcement, little is known how using Strava is related to negative outcomes. The current study examined mental (sports anxiety, depression, self-esteem) and physical health outcomes (number and severity of injuries). Athletic self-efficacy, competitiveness, and social support were included as moderators that may exacerbate or buffer how Strava is related to the outcomes. The results showed that Strava users reported more injuries and higher severity scores than non-users. Strava users experienced fewer symptoms of depression, but higher sport anxiety. The groups did not differ in terms of self-esteem. Athletic self-efficacy was a significant moderator in the relationship between Strava use and injury number, such that Strava users high in athletic self-efficacy reported fewer total injuries. Competitiveness was also a significant moderator. In particular, Strava users high in competitiveness reported more injuries and lower self-esteem. Social support was a significant moderator in the relationship between Strava use and depression, such that Strava users high in social support reported less depression. These findings expand previous research on health outcomes related to the use of social networking sites by bridging the gap between activity tracking and traditional social media.