Athletes the world over start duking it out at the 2016 Summer Olympicsin Rio de Janeiro tomorrow.
And whether you're in the Brazilian city or not, you can enjoy the action in one way or another on any of your devices from our very own coverageor from some offerings from Apple.
While doodling around with your device in the comfort of wherever-you-wish, check out these apps that can give you a slice of all the action, or fantasise yourself seeking Olympic glory:
. beIN Connect - Well let's start off with how to enjoy the games live on your device, shall we? beIN's got the action for you and you can plan your days ahead with their schedule.
. Strava - Why not start your own mini-Olympics with this running and cycling app that tracks your runs and rides with GPS? Even better, issue challenges to your friends and pretend your sprinting all the way to the finish line with gold hanging in the balance?
. Freeletics Bodyweight - If you're dreaming of one day flashing off those muscles and abs in the Olympics (or anywhere you want to show it off), allow this app to help you towards that dream. Claiming to be the most effective fitness programme, it assists you in deciding whether you need to lose or gain weight or just shape up with numerous exercise regimens, all that can adapt to your (we assume) busy schedule. And yeah, be inspired by their models on their homepage.
. YogaGlo - Too tired or too busy to sweat it out? Try the ancient art of yoga to calm yourself down from a rough day with a pretty good selection of over 3,500 classes that'll suit your style, level and duration. You can help yourself to the best yoga teachers, as well as learn the basics if you're a newbie. Your activity can be tracked using Health Kit and the Apple Watch; the app also complements other activities such as running, cycling, cross-training, golfing, etc. Even if you're offline, up to 10 yoga classes can be viewed. Anywhere.
And if you just saw your team lose and happen to have an Apple TV, you take a break from the Games with these apps until defeat has finally settled in, you've calmed down and have the courage to tell yourself "I will NOT swear at anyone":
. SketchParty TV - So what's some app with "sketch" on it doing here in an Olympics-related piece? Not much, except for the fact that you can light up the competition by drawing or playing some Pictionary-style games with it, among others. Gather your family or friends and challenge each other; the cuteness is sure to rub off on you.
. Beat Sports Remote - You don't have to physically beat up someone or something out of frustration - though you can beat up each other using this unique game. Beat Sports' collection of music-infused games combine sports and music - thus the name - by combining hitting balls and notes. As they put it, swing, volley and score to the beat of the music.
. Netflix - Does Netflix even need an intro?
And if you're blessed and lucky enough to be actually in Rio, here are some useful apps that can help you a lot (and why not say hi to the athletes or get us an autograph, souvenir or food from there as well?):
. Skyscanner - This all-in-one travel buddy allows you to check flights, hotels and cars-for-hire, showing you any price changes or which day they will be cheaper - at no additional cost.
. Airbnb - The official alternative accommodation services supplier for the Rio Games will help you find the best and most interesting places to go and stay, and helps you rent it out in a jiffy. You won't be short of choices; over 600,000 listings in more than 34,000 cities are waiting to be discovered by you.
. Currency - As with any responsible traveller, you need to be aware of your currency conversions. Providing up-to-date forex rates for over 150 countries and currencies, you'll be able to make sure you'll get your Brazilian real's worth.
. Uber - Shame if you don't know Uber by now.
. Restorando - Ah... what will going to some place be without trying the local fare? Reserve online for free and savour all the unique dishes there are in Brazil. And after the Rio Olympics, why not go on a little Latin America food trip? Use the app to spot the best restos in places like Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Panama, Peru and Uruguay as well.
And of course, don't forget about the Rio 2016 app itself, and our very own coverage.
By Alvin R. Cabral
