As Apple says on its website, the iPhone “is more than just a phone.” By downloading outdoor and fitness related apps to the phone, a whole new world is opened where outdoor sports enthusiasts can plan and map routes way beyond the built-in compass feature, use flora and fauna guides for instant recognition and even carry out emergency first aid which can actually save lives.
Using the iPhone for Action Sports
The iPhone 3G comes complete with Google maps and a built-in digital compass to instantly pinpoint a location using basic GPS and Wi-Fi. But for just $2.99, action sport lovers can download the MotionX GPS that turns the phone into an all action global positioning satellite device that users say outperforms the latest $500 Garmin Colorado in terms of functionality.
Aside from guiding users on the most extreme off-road adventures with amazing accuracy, photographs of hikes and rides plus key features such as campsites can be taken with the iPhone built-in camera so users never have to worry about getting lost.
First Aid Apps for the iPhone
Mishaps sometimes happen on the best outdoor adventures meaning good knowledge of first aid is a necessity. The Pocket First Aid and CPR app from the American Heart Association costs $3.99 and allows users to record and store essential medical information such as allergies and blood type should they be required plus it comes with a guide to essential first aid in various situations.
It was used by a survivor of the Haiti earthquake, Dan Woolley, to treat a fractured leg, head injury and shock. Dan remains convinced that this iPhone application helped to save his life after being trapped for 64 hours.
Identify Birds and Mammals on the Trail
Ever been hiking, spotted a beautiful bird and wondered “what is that?” The iBird Explorer app for Apple’s iPhone is an interactive guide to identify birds by color, habitat, shape or location. Keen birdwatchers can report a rare sighting with an accompanying application called Birdpost which locates the bird on a satellite map to share with others.
Botanists have the choice of various apps to identify wild flowers including the Audubon Wild Flowers application priced at $9.99. Audubon also produce a Mammals field guide for the iPhone, a great way to educate and entertain the kids on a family hike with beautiful images and comprehensive descriptions at the touch of a button.
Discover More in the Great Outdoors with iPhone Apps
An iPhone loaded with relevant mobile applications makes it easy to plan and map routes and carry nature in a pocket, eliminating the need to carry other devices like a GPS or a hand-held compass. Useful apps like first aid guides can also be a life saver in certain circumstances so for just a few dollars a piece, it’s worth downloading a few of the above applications.
Related Articles:
Also of interest for outdoor sport lovers may be
- Worlds Craziest Mountain Bike Race
- Most Useful Free iPhone Apps for Outdoor Adventures
- Best iPhone Apps for Cycling
Helen Smeaton - Helen Smeaton runs a cycling and hiking business and is also a freelance writer and web designer. Read her profile for more information
Join the Conversation