Scientist Connects Hamster's Wheel to Strava
Hamster Mollie's nightly runs are now tracked on Strava.
1The Idea of Tracking Hamster Runs on Strava
Dutch MRI physicist Thijs de Buck developed a system to track his 10-month-old hamster Mollie's nightly runs. Initially using a simple bike computer, de Buck sought a more comprehensive solution when this method proved insufficient. He built a magnetic sensor setup to automatically upload Mollie's running data to Strava. This system records each wheel rotation and transfers the collected data to Strava in the morning.
2Technical Solution and Strava Integration
De Buck created a system that detects each rotation using a magnet and hall sensor attached to the wheel. An ESP32 microcontroller records data overnight. A morning script converts this data into Strava-compatible .FIT files for automatic upload. The only manual step is adding Mollie's photo. De Buck humorously shared that his hamster now has a Strava Premium account.
3Mollie's Impressive Performance Data
Mollie averages 10 km per night, with a current record of 10.8 km. During one week of tracking, she started running between 9:54-10:04 PM on five consecutive nights. The live speed monitor shows bursts reaching 4-5 km/h, followed by water breaks. She completed Strava's August 400-minute running challenge by the second day, outpacing many humans.
4Going Viral on Social Media
Mollie's Strava account gained over 1,200 kudos and 600 followers in a week. Even professional athletes were amazed by the hamster's performance. De Buck eagerly awaits Strava's predicted 5K and marathon times after Mollie's 20th run. He jokingly worries her marathon time might surpass his own.
5Personal Motivation Behind the Project
Marathon runner de Buck had time for the project while recovering from injury. He aims to match Mollie's weekly 70 km running distance. Tracking every stat during his own training made monitoring Mollie's data a natural extension. He highlights the technical skills learned during development.
6Insights into Animal Behavior
Mollie's data provides fascinating insights into hamster nocturnal activity patterns. Hiding underground by day, Mollie alternates between eating and running at night, typically in short bursts. De Buck believes this data could interest those studying pet behavior.
7Playful Use of Technology
The project showcases creative applications of everyday tech. Using professional tools like Strava's API for fun inspires tech enthusiasts. De Buck added personal touches like an OLED display, automatic PR tracking code, and over 100 humorous run titles including 'The Fast and the Furriest.'
8Pet Fitness Tracking Trend
Mollie's story may boost interest in pet fitness tracking. While logging dog walks on Strava is common, systems for small pets like hamsters are innovative. De Buck's open-source solution could inspire similar projects. Experts note activity tracking could benefit pet health monitoring.
Original article: Hacker News — Bilim İnsanı Hamsterının Koşu Bandını Strava'ya Bağladı