ENHANCEMENT OF MOUNTAIN TERRITORIES THROUGH SUSTAINABLE, PERSONALIZED, AND CONSCIOUS HIKING

Introduction In recent years, mountain tourism has experienced a significant boom, accompanied by a rise in rescue calls. A substantial portion of these incidents is preventable, often stemming from technical or physical limitations. While mountain signage provides helpful information, it remains generic and not tailored to individual needs. Currently, no tool exists to deliver personalized guidance for outdoor activities. Aim To develop a tool offering personalized hiking times, effort estimates, and tailored recommendations based on trail and individual characteristics. Scientific Foundation The core of the project lies in the development of an algorithm capable of combining trail-specific data with user-specific variables such as anthropometric details, cardiovascular risks, and chronic conditions. A comprehensive review of the scientific literature provided the basis for the algorithm, enabling it to estimate hiking times, caloric expenditure, and cardiovascular effort while offering tailored recommendations for various health conditions. Validation Studies Validation was an integral component of the project, involving digital and field studies to compare predicted hiking times with real user data. Results demonstrated the algorithm's accuracy and adaptability across diverse populations. These studies provided critical feedback for refining the algorithm and expanding its applicability. Technical Development The technical realization of MOVE evolved through several phases, starting with a prototype used for internal calculations and testing. The development culminated in a mobile application featuring MOVEr, a personalized avatar that reflects to the user's characteristics. Key functionalities include real-time tracking, trail recommendations based on individual health data, and tips to enhance safety. Collaborative efforts involving experts in medicine, engineering, and software development ensured the delivery of a robust, user-friendly product. Business Idea A patent license for a calculation algorithm has been secured. The project has received multiple awards and evolved into a business concept centred on the commercialization of a software solution. A prototype of the software has been developed and is now available as a mobile application called MOVE - Hike and Bike. The application for the establishment of a university spin-off has been approved. Conclusion The MOVE project represents a novel approach to promoting outdoor physical activity by integrating scientific expertise with innovative digital solutions. The initiative was designed to address a critical gap in the availability of personalized recommendations for outdoor enthusiasts, focusing on ensuring safety, improving planning, and adapting to individual health and fitness characteristics. MOVE aims to encourage sustainable and inclusive outdoor tourism while bridging the gap between basic research and practical applications. Enhancements such as AI-driven avatar personalization, real-time weather integration, group activity functionalities, additional outdoor activities, and wearable device compatibility are planned.