By Deion Clifton
Technology has evolved from stationary desktop computers and wall-mounted telephones to cell phones, tablets, and even smartwatches. Because of this shift toward portability, we’re able to take the very things we love to give our attention on the go. For so long, these devices have been looked down upon because of the negative notion that technology has a direct correlation to reduced physical activity. But these very same devices holding our attention can also encourage us to get up and get outside. Let’s look at some of the ways technology encourages outdoor activity.
Devices
Now, I know what you’re thinking. I’m about to bombard you with a list of downloadable apps for our trusty cellular devices. And you’re right, that’s part of it. But apps are just part of the tech revolution that’s getting us off our seats and into the great outdoors. Here are some of the cool gadgets that are turning us into outdoor enthusiasts:
Fitness Trackers & Smartwatches
If you’re not already wearing one, you’ve probably heard of them. Popular fitness and activity trackers from Fitbit, Woop, Garmin, Apple Watch, and other brands not only keep a record of your step count, miles traveled, and calories burned but also log specific exercises. They seamlessly connect to your phone, providing you with real-time updates whenever you need them. Many of these devices also come with a built-in GPS, perfect for those looking to explore new areas for walking or running.
Action Cameras
These compact, rugged, and often waterproof cameras are a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or indulging in extreme sports, these cameras can be mounted or clipped to various surfaces, offering a first-person perspective of your adventures. Brands like GoPro have become synonymous with these versatile cameras, enhancing the way we capture and relive our outdoor experiences.
Telescope and Binoculars
This is an easy one. If you enjoy exploring outdoor spaces or stargazing, these provide a closer view of nature’s most beautiful scenery. These devices help to explore the sky and all the magnificent views and creatures that exist below it.
Night Vision Goggles
Come on, I can’t be the only one who has always wanted a pair of these things! While they don’t provide a clear, brightly lit view in the dark, they’ll enhance what little light is available and even enhance your view of the nighttime sky by revealing parts of the Milky Way that may be faint to the naked eye. They’re also good for wildlife observation of nocturnal animals, hiking, or camping.
Drones
These provide a fun and safe way of documenting your experiences from above. Get aerial views of boat rides, parks, hiking trails, and more. Just be sure to follow any posted rules before lifting off in public places.
Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets
While VR isn’t exactly an outdoor-only experience, some VR headsets can simulate outdoor activities like rock climbing, biking, skiing, or deep-sea diving. This can help spark interest in trying out some of these activities in the real world.
Sports-Specific Devices
Let’s get techy! If you’re looking to improve your performance in any sport, chances are there’s something out there that’ll help you. As an athlete, you may even find yourself running to Amazon to overnight one or two of the following innovations. Take a look at just a few of these devices that are changing the game:
Smart Swim Goggles
If you’re an avid swimmer, you’re going to love this! Convenience has finally come to the surface. And out of the water rises a new innovation in the form of swim goggles. Smart swim goggles allow you to keep tabs on your vitals, pace, times, and more without a watch. Connect these goggles to an app on your phone and track your progress over time. Keep in mind that the app your goggles connect to is dependent on the brand you get. Brands include Form, Holoswim, and Finis.
GPS Bike Mount
Keep yourself on the right path with a GPS bike mount. With smart connectivity, these devices provide navigation, ride planning, performance tracking, and cycling awareness. Leading brands include Garmin, Wahoo, Hammerhead, and Bryton.
Power Meter Pedals
To complement your GPS bike mount, you can examine your performance even further by measuring your total power, cadence, seated vs. standing times, balance, and more. Easily switch your pedals on any bike for these and start tailoring your training around your specific strengths and weaknesses.
Golf Launch Monitor
Are you having trouble with your golf swing? This product allows you to practice, record, and track your swing, launch angle and direction, club speed, smash factor, and more. Rapsodo Golf believes, “If you can track it, you can improve it.” This is why they gave you the capability of tracking up to 13 different metrics. It also provides soft golf balls, allowing you to practice anytime and anywhere on more than 30K simulated courses. And Rapsodo is just one of many brands that offer this device. Others include SkyTrak, Full Swing, Swing Caddie, and more.
Apps
As we briefly mentioned, there are apps and games that encourage movement and outdoor exploration. Like the VR headset, not all of these apps will require you to actually be outside, but they may help to spark some interest in picking up an outdoor hobby. The following apps help to encourage many of us to get up and get outside:
Pokémon Go
The first game that may come to mind when thinking of an outdoor exploration game is Pokémon Go. Niantic, Inc. used augmented reality, or AR, to mix the virtual world with the real world. Pokémon Go seeks to fulfill the childhood dreams of many, giving them the title of Pokémon trainer and tasking these new trainers to “catch ‘em all!”
Ingress
The same people that brought you Pokémon GO also released Ingress just three years prior. Like Pokémon Go, the game mixes virtual reality with the real world to allow you, a secret agent, to connect with others worldwide and take control of territories. Players collect exotic matter (XM) from portals around the world to inspire creativity and obtain the items they need. Portals are typically significant man-made art: public sculptures, memorials, notable buildings, etc. Join a faction, hack portals, and find the truth behind the greatest mysteries of the world. The fate of the world is in your hands, agent.
Scavenger Hunts
Apps like these allow parents and teachers to create custom scavenger hunts filled with riddles, challenges, and photo tasks that are bound to get kids moving about and interacting with the environment. Popular apps include Goosechase, Scavify, and Clueskeeper.
Fitness RPG
This app turns the steps that you take throughout the day into light energy to fight off the dark energy in the game. Your steps will also earn you power-ups and the ability to recruit other heroes to your side to eventually save the world. The balance of the Fitness RPG world depends solely on your activity… no pressure.
WalkScape
I feel like you just have to hear about this app despite it not being released yet. If you’re a fan of the game RuneScape and of walking, this app is for you. This is another game where you progress by taking steps in real life. The game takes place in a fantasy world that features three countries and numerous locations. You’ll be able to explore the map, embark on quests, progress through the storyline, and level up, just like in RuneScape! The only difference is you’ll be using the power of your steps to accomplish your goals. There will also be a global marketplace and other community features. Beta-testing closed in January, but Reddit has been buzzing about the new fitness RPG app for over a year now. This is something adults and kids alike can look forward to.
Sweatcoin
How would you like to start getting paid for the steps you take? Allow this app to run in the background on your phone or smartwatch, and watch your sweat coins add up! Plus, receive exclusive offers, join challenges, and more. Check out the marketplace where you can spend your sweat coins on raffles and drawings, prizes, gifts, and discounts. Or donate them to a worthy cause. There are other apps like this, such as Macadam, Cashwalk, or Sweatwallet.
AllTrails
Adventure begins with AllTrails! This app provides selections of expert-verified nature trails that best suit your needs, whether you’re running, walking, hiking, mountain biking, or road biking. This app can help you discover and explore the refreshing, scenic nature routes you’re looking for.
Geocaching
Want to go on a real-life treasure hunt? There are millions of geocaches – small capsules hidden by the game makers and by fellow players – around the world. You’ll be joining a community of thousands of adventurers spanning 191 countries. All you have to do is download the app, create an account, and use the provided clues to hunt down a geocache. Some caches contain a simple log to record who has found them and when, while others include small trinkets. Remember to put the geocache back where you found it so others can enjoy the hunt, too!
Adventure Awaits
There’s so much more technology that helps to encourage outdoor play. Technological advancements over the last two decades have enhanced the overall outdoor experience, making it safer and more interactive. Though it’s important to be able to unplug and enjoy the outdoors, there are many tools that can make your walk, hike, or camping trip more enjoyable.
As we become more and more reliant on technology, it’s important to be purposeful with it. Do not allow technology to consume you or your time. Technology can be a great tool for learning, exploring, and observing nature. However, it can also be a great distractor, so use it in moderation. You don’t want to miss out on all the wonderful things nature has to offer.
