TRAIT’s AI-Enabled Running App Raises €1M

TRAIT is rethinking running.

What’s happening: The Berlin-born fitness app closed a €1M seed round led by HTGF and better ventures.

On the heels of a relaunch, the funding accelerates its ambition to combine AI-tailored running training with social and emotional support.

Switching lanes. Debuted in 2021, TRAIT (fka twaiv) uses personalised fitness plans and virtual coaching to help runners reach their goals.

Despite downloads of its first-generation product growing 178% YoY, the startup spotted an opportunity to “revolutionise running training” after finding a lack of social connection is one of the biggest barriers to motivation.

A new pace, its enhanced offering taps AI for greater flexibility, empathy, and community.

Why it matters: Clubs and distance running are on the rise, but for runners unsure of how to optimise performance and prevent injuries, the sport can come at a cost.

Running apps are getting personal to help people cross the finish line.

• Fuelled by £5M in funding, AI-powered Runna plans to integrate health data like HRV, sleep and menstrual cycle into its personalised programs to optimise performance.
• The official training app of the TCS London Marathon, Coopah harnesses AI and real-life coaching to help runners train for specific events.
• Designed for women, Aussie app Femmi provides users with personalised training plans in sync with their menstrual cycle.

On a similar track, Strava’s new feature Athlete Intelligence leverages generative AI to create summaries and guidance on user performance and fitness goals.

Looking ahead: Riding the running boom, high-tech apps are helping people put their best foot forward. Designed to put a health coach and community in your pocket, TRAIT believes its emphasis on holistic performance will separate it from the pack.