Your phone or tablet can keep you scrolling endlessly, OR you can make it a tool to support the habits you want to foster! Exercise and social connection are research-proven to be helpful for people with Parkinson’s in slowing progression and preserving quality of life. Here are eight apps that can help you start using your phone to motivate you to get out of the house:
1. Pikmin Bloom
This alternate reality game introduces you to colorful and mysterious Pikmin, which can be plucked from the ground and then will follow you wherever you walk. Earn rewards for going outside and exploring with friends. No matter how far away they might be, you and your friends can team up and work towards a shared steps goal!
2. ZRX (best-known for Zombies, Run!)
This beginner-friendly running app helps you track your run with an interactive horror story that encourages you to keep moving to survive. In their most popular storyline, “Zombies, Run!”, you attempt to outrun the zombie apocalypse and complete a variety of dangerous missions.
3. Monster Hunter Now
Take on some of the most formidable monsters from the Monster Hunter universe as they appear in our world. Head outside, team up with fellow hunters, and find monsters to fend off in your neighborhood – all while getting your steps in!
4. Walkr: Fitness Space Adventure
Turn your steps into fuel for your spaceship and explore new galaxies and planets just by walking. With team missions and social features, you can play with your friends, too!
5. Pokémon Go
Probably the most well-known mobile AR game of recent times, this classic mobile game allows you to act out your dreams of becoming a Pokémon trainer in real life, exploring your local area to discover and catch Pokémon. A great option for a game the whole family could play together!
6. Magic Streets: Turn based RPG
An open-world, GPS-based fantasy survival game. Explore a dark medieval world and conquer monsters as you walk around your town, either online in multiplayer or offline for a solo dungeon-exploring experience.
7. Wokamon
If you don’t exercise, your virtual pet will starve! Walk to feed and grow your little friend in this pedometer-based game. The perfect solution for someone who wants the best parts of a step-tracker and a Tamagotchi rolled into one!
8. Steps & Beasts (currently IOS-only)
Reach your daily step target to hatch a cute, new beast every day and add it to your collection! Coming soon to Android users.
