How to Export GPS Art to Strava, Garmin and Komoot
Export your GPS drawing as GPX, then import it into Strava, Garmin Connect, Komoot and common GPS watches.
To use GPS art on Strava, Garmin or Komoot, the simplest workflow is to export your route as a GPX file. GPX stores the GPS points of your drawing and can be imported as a route in most sports apps, GPS watches and cycling computers. With Draw My Loop, the flow is direct: draw the shape, snap it to real roads, check distance and elevation, then download the GPX file. Each platform imports it slightly differently, but the goal is the same: show the planned line on your device so you can follow it during the activity.
Quick answer
To export GPS art to Strava, Garmin or Komoot, create your route in Draw My Loop, click Export GPX, then import that file into the routes or courses section of your platform. Strava uses it as a route, Garmin Connect syncs it to a compatible watch, and Komoot can convert it into a tour. Before heading out, check that the shape still looks readable after import, because some platforms slightly recalculate the route.
Export the GPX from Draw My Loop
In the Studio, finalize the drawing first: shape, start point, total distance, running or cycling profile, and road snapping. Export the GPX only when the blue route matches the intended shape. The downloaded file contains a full GPS track, not just a few waypoints, which preserves curves better. Use a clear file name such as heart-8km-lyon.gpx or star-bike-22km.gpx so you can find it easily in Strava, Garmin Connect or Komoot.
Import into Strava
In Strava, import the GPX file as a route. On desktop, open Routes, create a new route, then choose GPX or TCX import. After import, Strava shows the route on the map: this is the moment to check that the drawing has not changed too much. Save the route and sync it with your phone or watch. On the day of the activity, follow the route, record normally, and the recorded GPS track becomes your Strava art on the map.
Import into Garmin Connect
In Garmin Connect, import the GPX as a course. Open Training, then Courses, import the file and choose the right activity type, running or cycling. Sync your Garmin watch afterward. On models with maps or breadcrumb navigation, the drawing appears as a course to follow. For precise GPS art, enable off-course alerts and check the start point before launching the activity. Older watches can simplify very long courses, so keep highly detailed drawings within a reasonable distance.
Import into Komoot and other GPS apps
In Komoot, use file import to turn the GPX into a tour. Komoot may recalculate some segments using its own road and trail network, especially if the selected sport does not match the original route. Choose the correct sport, review the map and fix visible deviations before saving. The same principle applies to Suunto, Coros, Polar, Wahoo and many mobile apps: import the GPX, check the shape, sync the device, then follow navigation during the activity.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common mistake is confusing the planned route with the recorded activity. The exported GPX is used to follow a route; the final GPS art appears only after you run or ride that route with a GPS device. Second mistake: not checking the result after import. If a platform recalculates a segment, a heart can lose its point or text can become unreadable. Third mistake: choosing an exotic format. For GPS art, GPX remains the simplest and most compatible format. Finally, start with enough battery and keep navigation visible, especially on drawings with many turns.