Fantasy Hike: Save the World One Step at a Time

iPhone screen showing the fantasy hike app, on the first tab. You see a day and distance count, along with a description of where you are in your journey.

For the last 33 days, I’ve been on an epic quest to deliver a magic ring to Fire Mountain, where I must destroy it before it falls into the hands of an evil wizard with a rather large eyeball. I’ve walked 97.4 miles and I’m currently spending time with “Old Tom”.

I’m talking about an app I recently discovered called Fantasy Hike. It tracks your steps and reports your progress through a very Lord of the Rings-like journey, without actually using any Lord of the Rings intellectual property.

If you’ve read the books, you’ll find plenty of Easter eggs sprinkled throughout, a nod to Sam and Frodo’s adventure. The nerd part of me loves this application. It’s a 1,700-mile journey, and it may be a while before I reach Mountain Doom…ahem…Mount Fire. But I intend to enjoy every step along the way.

The developers describe it as “a fun way to get moving: set off on an epic journey, take real-world steps to progress, and unlock achievements along the path.” And honestly, it feels exactly like that.

If you’re even remotely Lord of the Rings-adjacent, I recommend giving Fantasy Hike a try. It’s the perfect excuse to walk a little farther.

The Apple Ring and Health Tracking

Some rumors are circulating about Apple developing a fitness ring. I don’t know if it’s true, but there is a compelling case for a lighter fitness tracking device, whether it’s a ring or a lightweight bracelet. Because a bracelet would compete with the Apple Watch, it seems more likely to be a ring.

Just a few weeks ago, Apple’s Health VP emphasized the importance of obtaining fitness tracking information while sleeping. Many people wear their Apple Watch to bed, but not everyone does (I try to, but sometimes struggle). Even if only worn at night, a ring could address this issue.

Apple Watch and Early Detection of Parkinson’s Disease

Scientists have been studying motion tracking as a method for early detection of Parkinson’s Disease, which initially shows up with symptoms of rigidity and tremors. Researchers in the UK are looking to use smartwatches and their motion tracking to help prove an earlier Parkinson’s diagnosis.

Early results are positive, with AI models providing accurate early diagnosis. Further studies are underway, but it makes sense that a sensitive motion-tracking device on your wrist all day would notice things you may not.

Do you remember when the big story about the Apple Watch was that it was a fashion accessory? As the years go by, it becomes so obvious that the Apple Watch is primarily a robust health and fitness device in addition to telling you the time. I’m already starting a campaign to get one on my mother-in-law’s wrist. (Hat tip to Amber Neely at Apple Insider for turning me onto this research.)