TCX to KML Converter
Convert Training Center XML files to KML format for Google Earth visualization
Your Data is Secure
All file conversions happen directly in your browser. We never upload, store, or save your files on any server. Your data remains completely private and secure.
How to Convert TCX to KML
Follow these simple steps to convert your files quickly and easily
Upload Your TCX File
Click the upload area above or drag and drop your TCX file. Select a .tcx file with GPS data from your Garmin device or training software.
Click Convert
Click the convert button to process your TCX file. The converter extracts GPS tracks, elevation data, and sensor information for Google Earth visualization.
Download Your KML File
Once conversion is complete, download your new KML file. Open it in Google Earth for 3D visualization, route animation, and interactive mapping.
About TCX to KML Conversion
Learn more about the converter and its creator
Jonas
I'm a software developer and sports enthusiast. I created these converters to help athletes manage their workout data efficiently.
Understanding TCX to KML Conversion
Converting TCX (Training Center XML) files to KML (Keyhole Markup Language) format allows you to transform your structured workout data into a format perfect for visualization in Google Earth, Google Maps, and other geographic visualization applications. This conversion brings your fitness activities to life with 3D visualization, route animation, and rich geographic context.
What Data is Preserved?
The conversion process extracts and preserves comprehensive data from your TCX file:
- GPS tracks with timestamps - Complete route information for animation in Google Earth
- Start and finish markers - Clear visual indicators of activity beginning and end
- Elevation profiles - 3D altitude data for terrain visualization
- Sensor data - Heart rate, power, cadence, and speed information
- Activity metadata - Sport type, activity ID, and timing information
- Multi-activity support - All activities and laps from complex TCX files
- Route animation - Time-based playback in Google Earth
KML Format Benefits
Converting TCX to KML format offers unique visualization advantages:
- Immersive 3D visualization in Google Earth with terrain and satellite imagery
- Time-based route animation showing your progress over time
- Interactive maps with zoom, tilt, and rotation capabilities
- Integration with Google Maps for route sharing and planning
- Support for multiple activities in organized folder structures
- Rich styling with colored tracks and custom markers
- Cross-platform compatibility with various mapping applications
- Perfect for route documentation and presentation
Google Earth Features
The generated KML files include advanced features for Google Earth:
- Time Animation - Use Google Earth's time slider to watch your route unfold
- 3D Visualization - See your route in 3D with elevation changes and terrain
- Start/Finish Markers - Green pin for start, red pin for finish location
- Track Styling - Red colored route line with appropriate width for visibility
- Sensor Data - Extended data includes heart rate, power, cadence, and speed
- Multi-Format Support - Both gx:Track (animated) and LineString (static) formats
- Activity Organization - Folder structure for multiple activities
Visualization Capabilities
The KML format enables rich visualization options:
- Route Context - See your workout in relation to roads, landmarks, and terrain
- Elevation Analysis - Visual representation of climbs and descents
- Performance Overlay - Heart rate and power data integrated with route visualization
- Satellite Imagery - High-resolution satellite and aerial photography backdrop
- Street View Integration - Click any point to see Street View imagery
- Custom Styling - Professional-looking tracks with consistent color schemes
Common Use Cases
Converting TCX files to KML format is particularly valuable for:
- Creating impressive route presentations for training logs or social sharing
- Race course visualization and analysis with satellite imagery
- Training route documentation with geographic context
- Adventure and travel activity mapping with 3D terrain visualization
- Course planning and route familiarization using Google Earth flyovers
- Creating animated workout videos with route progression
- Sharing routes with training partners, coaches, or event participants
- Archiving significant activities with rich visual documentation
Multi-Activity Support
The converter handles complex TCX files comprehensively:
- Activity Organization - Each activity gets its own folder with descriptive names
- Lap Integration - All laps combined into continuous tracks for complete visualization
- Timestamp Preservation - Chronological ordering enables time-based animation
- Sport Identification - Activity types clearly labeled for easy identification
- Route Separation - Multiple activities displayed as separate, organized tracks
Technical Details
The conversion process involves these steps:
- Parsing the TCX XML structure and extracting activity data
- Processing all laps and trackpoints with GPS coordinates
- Creating KML folder structure for activity organization
- Generating start and finish placemarks with custom styling
- Building gx:Track elements with timestamps for animation
- Adding LineString elements for broad application compatibility
- Embedding sensor data as extended properties
- Applying professional styling and color schemes
Application Compatibility
The generated KML files work with various applications:
- Google Earth - Full feature support including time animation and 3D visualization
- Google Maps - Route display and basic visualization features
- Google Earth Pro - Advanced features for professional route analysis
- Mobile Apps - Many GPS and mapping apps support KML import
- Web Mapping - Various online mapping services accept KML files
- GIS Software - Professional geographic information systems
Pro Tip
For the best experience, open your KML file in Google Earth and use the time slider to animate your route. The 3D visualization with satellite imagery provides incredible context for your workout, showing elevation changes, terrain features, and geographic landmarks along your path.
Google Earth Animation
The KML files include timestamp data that enables time-based animation in Google Earth. Use the time controls to watch your route unfold over time, creating dynamic visualizations perfect for presentations, training analysis, or simply reliving your adventure with geographic context.
GPS Data Requirements
This converter requires GPS coordinate data in your TCX file. Activities recorded indoors without GPS (like treadmill runs or stationary bike workouts) cannot be converted to KML format since there's no geographic route to visualize. Ensure your activity was recorded with GPS enabled.