For decades, outdoor sports such as surfing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and others have been about skill, instinct, and immersion in nature. Artificial intelligence (AI) is now aiming to improve the human experience outdoors to a new level – with the help of technology12. Whether it's improving performance, driving safety, or enabling humans to push the limits of their abilities, AI is ushering in an artificial-augmented-adventure era, one outdoor sport at a time34. Here's how AI is changing these sports.

Surfing has always been about reading waves. Yes, of course, you have to ride them, but for surfers, it's important to fully understand wave size, the direction of the wind, and the way the tides are flowing. AI is helping to make this easier by helping them predict the many factors that go into surfing12. Of course, numerous surfers wake up and immediately look at weather and wave reports, but now Surfline and other AI-powered platforms are doing some amazing things to help them be more prepared than ever3. Experience surfers know that the more they know, the better rides and experiences they can enjoy together. Thanks to Surfline, it utilizes wave conditions with unparalleled accuracy, so surfers know exactly when the best waves are going to arrive and where they need to be to ride them3. These systems also learn the patterns of the ocean so they can predict the size of a wave so that surfers can carefully plan their adventures. This information can keep surfers safer and more comfortable in the water.

AI-Enhanced Surfboards
Of course, someone had to go and innovate an enhanced surfboard. Boardriders is now using AI to better understand how various materials work together to create a smooth and powerful ride. They've built sensors into their surfboards to track speed, how a board responds to a specific rider, and how effectively a board cuts through the water. The idea is that one day, surfboards can adjust their shape when a surfer is on a board or transform depending on weather and wave conditions. Imagine being able to jump on any wave at any time and enjoy more control and precision.

Virtual Coaching and Training
If you're looking to improve your skills, you can look to AI tools like CoachAI for video footage of your surf session. You'll then gain a wealth of information on your technique and how to make adjustments to perform better. With machine learning, as you continue to use the tool, it will analyze your overall balance, timing, and positioning and then guide you so you can level up4.

Rock climbing has been and will always be a dangerous sport. While it's exhilarating, climbers are always at risk of injury or death, which is where AI is increasingly coming into the picture. It's both working to make the sport safer and to help climbers become stronger and better.

AI Route Planning and Analysis
When attempting tough climbs, route planning is vitally important. This is why professionals have been known to spend weeks and months planning a difficult climb. Thus, they have been turning to drone footage, 3D mapping, and AI to get as much information as they can before their adventures1. Now, AI algorithms can take all the data gathered by various tools and help decide which route will be easier, less dangerous, and more enjoyable.

Smart Climbing Gear
AI is also increasingly being added to climbing gear to help increase performance and keep climbers safe. This includes AI harnesses and devices that can help detect and prevent falls from occurring2. They use sensors that carefully monitor your movements, which can then help tighten the rope and make adjustments before anything dangerous happens. And of course, there are AI wearables that keep track of heart rate, body temperature, and even how much muscle you're exerting over time. You'll then have real-time feedback on your physical condition, which can help you stay empowered and avoid exhaustion and/or injury3.

There are also climbing simulators and virtual training tools that can help you experience various climbs, rock formations, and other elements that you'll come across. These systems can also help new climbers get a grasp on the most important techniques that can help them master the craft. These simulators can adjust and adapt routes that best fit any skill level, and then provide tips and coaching for better performance4.

While surfing and climbing are seeking lots of AI advancements, it's important to mention other sports are enjoying the technology. These sports include mountain biking, hiking, snowboarding, snow skiing, and more. AI is doing wonders for trail mapping and navigation, making sports like biking, running, and hiking much safer. One of our favorite apps is Kamoot, which uses AI in the form of learning algorithms to analyze hiking or biking terrain, weather, and the types of hikes/bikes the user is wanting to undertake. They are especially helpful in identifying obstacles and hazards that can be quite dangerous.1

Track and field athletes are also using AI in their training exercises, as AI has the power to look closely at an athlete's mechanics to identify even the slightest movements they make. AI is also invaluable as it tracks their vitals to make sure they are training properly, getting enough oxygen, and avoiding exhaustion.1

Wearables wrapped around AI have already been revolutionizing sports for quite some time. Garmin Fenix, for example, is a smartwatch that tracks performance metrics that can include, but aren't limited to speed, distance, and even oxygen levels. Then, the tools use AI to help athletes get ahead of the curve and perform at peak performance. Not to mention, the device keeps athletes safer as they experience the elements12. AI helmets with built-in sensors are also making biking a safer sport. When a rider falls, their emergency contacts are immediately altered as to their location and time of fall3. Similar helmets can also be used by skiers and snowboarders, making it easier for them to navigate through tough weather conditions and terrains with more precision and ease4.

The integration of AI into sports such as surfing, climbing, skiing, snowboarding, and is exciting for athletes of all levels. Not only can they level with the help of AI guidance, but they can also stay safer as they navigate through the often unpredictable outdoors.12 As AI technology advances, it's safe to say that we'll be blown away by what both the technologies and the humans they empower can accomplish together.34