8 Motivations to Start Up Health & Fitness

18 March 2020

The holiday season is officially over, which means it’s time to start working off some of the extra pounds you picked up at mom’s house. While people generally love the idea of looking like the dudes who do commercials for home-exercise equipment, most of us still hate working out and dieting. If you are one of them, don’t worry. There are a ton of startups offering the kind of motivation you need in the form of mobile apps. Such apps use activity tracking as well as fitness and health risk assessment apps.

Today we’ll be exercising our startup muscles by taking a look at some of these young companies and what makes them tick.

8 Motivations to Start Up Health & Fitness:

Fitness gamification is huge right now, which makes sense given that it adds a much-needed dimension of play to the arduous task of getting fit. A great example of fitness gamification is Tep, which is basically a cross between a fitness tracker and a Tamagotchi; though, in the case of Tep, the star is a niftily-designed giraffe rather than a globular cluster of black pixels.

The more a user exercises, the better the giraffe does (users can buy their long-necked pets treats with rewards points they earn from walking, running and cycling). If users slack off, though, it’s curtains for the poor creature.

According to the app’s creators, a group of five super-talented self-starters from Szeged, Hungary, «Tep’s competitive edge relies on emotional connection and the mental „threat“ that the beloved pet might suffer from the lack of proper physical activity and thus offers a solution for curve fatigue effect.»

Does that sound a little dark? Sure. But it’s for a good cause. The founding team’s goal is to help users lose eight million pounds of fat in the next three years; there’s also talk of buying a giraffe.

The founding team built Tep on their own time and dime, but are currently funded by Traction Tribe and prizes from Microsoft’s Imagine Cup.

Tep is available in beta for Android and Windows phones, with an iOS version coming soon.

Wokamon

If you like the idea of a digital workout buddy helping you toe the line, but giraffes aren’t really your thing, then you might dig Wokamon, which comes to us from Mars Zhu and Hazim Abdul Hamid of Noodum.

Wokamon features dozens of animated monsters that get bigger and stronger as you do. Since it comes with a pedometer and syncs with wearables like Jawbone, Fitbit, and Up, you can be sure that every calorie burned gets counted and fed to your growing army of critters.

Connecting with friends on social media through Wokamon earns you reward points, which you can burn on unlocking new creatures.

Noodum and Wokamon are currently being funded by an $18,000 seed investment from Manchester Metropolitan University’s Innospace Incubator.

Gamified fitness apps like Wokamon and Tep have a lot of options when it comes to future monetization. They can either take the Zombies, Run! The approach of charging for downloads (which works if you’re as niche and well-made as that app) or offer in-app purchases for things like new backgrounds, characters, or crystals and boosters for your pet monsters.

For now, though, we can take advantage of both Tep and Wokamon for free.

Teamster

Teamster is an iOS app that, contrary to its name, has absolutely nothing to do with trucking. What teamster does do, though, is help you connect with other people in your area who are interested in the same sorts of athletic activities as you.

Conveniently, users are able to identify which sports they like and their level of skill in each on a scale of 1 to 5, which means you won’t be totally outmatched when you meet up for a game with other users.

When you find another user who shares your interests and skill set, swipe right in the app to add them to your team. Sounds like Tinder is ubiquitous, doesn’t it? Users can then create activities for other users or teams to join.

Teamster comes to us from the Melbourne based duo of Henry Chan and 22-year old Sam McCallum, who has a background in competitive running, cycling, and skiing.

Actually, 2015 is shaping up to be an awesome year for apps that bring social networking logic to the gym. Take Boston-based Perspyre, for example, which is coming out soon with a beta version for Android and iOS.

The whole point of Perspyre is connecting people who love to sweat and giving them access to workouts, advice, and motivation. Users can log into the app via Facebook and take post-workout selfies, record workouts, and brag about new personal records.

Though it’s admittedly a little intense for beginners, Persypre is perfect for those who are already «motivated and dedicated» enough to willingly visit Crossfit and P90x classes.

Perspyre is the brainchild of Jason Chisholm and Jeremy Mays and has received $25,000 in seed funding from John Piret of the investment firm Newbury Piret & Co.

If Perspyre sounds like it’s right up your alley, keep an eye out for the soon-to-be-launched SternFit iOS app which also gives workout buffs a great platform for sharing pics, tips, and workouts.

Rocket Journey

If your meteoric rise to peak physical perfection is still in the launch phase, you’ll find a helpful companion in RocketJourney, which bills itself as the «smartest and friendliest way to a fitness lifestyle.»

The app’s founding trio of Carlos Ayala, Pablo Artee, and Ernesto Cambuston has received funding from 500 Startups, the seed fund and startup accelerator comprised of Google and PayPal alums.

RocketJourney tracks all of your fitness activities from cycling to yoga to lifting to competitive eating — just kidding about that last one — and verifies that you’ve actually worked out through GPS and wearables integration.

The app motivates you to stick to your fitness regime by giving you points for completed workouts and taking away points for missed ones. The same logic holds true for user-created «teams» which add the pinch of peer-pressure that it just might take to keep you on track.

You can register for updates on RocketJourney’s release on the website.

OneSet

OneSet — «Vine for Fitness» — is another promising app to stay tuned for in the months to come. Users can create 15-second videos demonstrating an exercise or «stack» other users’ videos into workouts.

Since videos are organized by muscle group or goal, it’s easy to find the right moves for you.

OneSet’s founding team is based in Waterloo, Canada, and consists of brothers Amad and Shameel Abdullah, as well as full-stack developer George Xu.

GYM radio

Sometimes all it takes to reach the athlete within is finding the right music to sweat to, or the right gym to do it in.

Though GYM radio’s online music streaming service has been around since 2013, its new iOS, Android, and Windows phone releases have made it easier than ever to get amped up and pumped up at the same time.

The app features three music settings — cardio, gym, and hardcore-tailored to give your workout the right feel. Here’s the best part: GYM radio is completely ad-free, which means your runners high won’t get interrupted by voice-actors pitching toothpaste or discount car insurance.

GYM radio also offers a premium upgrade which, for a monthly or yearly subscription, will let you listen offline, skip songs, and get access to material unavailable on the standard version.

Gymhopper

Gymhopper — «Uber for gyms»- is a Swiss startup that aims to help you find the right gym by offering its users discounted individual training passes. Gyms benefit from the app by getting a little extra exposure as well as a shot at their target market, people who are actively searching for a new place to get sweaty.

Gymhopper is currently in series A fundraising but expects an iOS release later this year.

What can fitness startups learn from RunKeeper?

Figuring out how to actually make money with your app is a problem that can plague even the biggest of startup fish. Each of the aforementioned apps will have to figure out the right monetization strategy for their product and user-base. One good model employed by the leading fitness tracker RunKeeper is to partner with other businesses to provide sponsored advertising to users.

That means Teamster’s users could theoretically get discounts on Nike products for showing up at local softball games, and Perspyre users could get 25% off gym memberships for visiting p90x classes 3 times a week.

There are a lot of good ways to get back in shape, and a lot of good startups out there creating more every day.

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TMS For Anxiety: Debunking Myths And Setting The Facts Straight

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people. While traditional treatments like therapy and medications have been effective for many, some individuals continue to struggle with anxiety symptoms. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a promising alternative for those seeking relief. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of TMS therapy for anxiety, debunk myths surrounding its effectiveness, and present the facts that can help you make an informed decision about this innovative treatment. What Is TMS For Anxiety? So, does TMS work for anxiety? Let's start by demystifying TMS. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, isn't some sci-fi concept; it's a real-life, non-invasive procedure that taps into the power of magnetic fields to gently nudge specific parts of your brain. Originally designed to help with depression, TMS has been under the research spotlight, and guess what? It's showing some impressive potential in the realm of anxiety treatment. So, let's keep the curiosity flowing as we explore the myths and facts surrounding this innovative therapy. Myth Vs. Fact: TMS And Anxiety Myth #1: TMS Is Only Effective For Depression One common misconception about TMS is that it's exclusively effective for treating depression. While it was initially developed and approved for depression, research and clinical experience have demonstrated its potential benefits for anxiety disorders as well. TMS works by modulating neural activity in the brain, making it a versatile tool for various mental health conditions, including anxiety. Fact: TMS Can Be Effective for Anxiety Several studies and clinical trials have shown that TMS can significantly reduce symptoms in various anxiety disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). The key lies in targeting the right brain regions associated with anxiety, and TMS therapy can precisely accomplish this task. Myth #2: TMS Is Painful And Unsafe Another myth is that TMS is a painful or unsafe procedure. In reality, TMS is considered a well-tolerated and safe treatment option. During a TMS session, patients typically experience a tapping or clicking sensation on their scalp, but this discomfort is generally mild. TMS is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't require surgery or anaesthesia, and it doesn't induce seizures. Fact: TMS Is Safe and Generally Painless TMS for anxiety is performed in an outpatient setting, and most patients can resume their daily activities immediately after a session. It has a minimal risk of side effects, with the most common being mild scalp discomfort or headache, which usually subsides quickly. TMS therapy sessions are closely monitored by trained professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness. Myth #3: TMS Is A Quick Fix Some individuals may expect TMS to provide instant relief from anxiety symptoms. While TMS can be highly effective, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and results may vary from person to person. It is essential to have realistic expectations and commit to a recommended TMS anxiety treatment plan. Fact: TMS Requires a Treatment Plan TMS for anxiety typically involves a series of sessions over several weeks. The exact number of sessions and their frequency may vary based on individual needs and the severity of the anxiety disorder. Patience and consistency are essential for achieving the best results with TMS. Myth #4: TMS Is Expensive And Not Covered By Insurance Cost can be a significant concern for those considering TMS. However, many insurance plans now cover TMS therapy for various mental health conditions, including anxiety. It's crucial to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses. Fact: TMS May Be Covered by Insurance Due to the increasing recognition of TMS as an effective treatment for mental health conditions, insurance coverage has expanded. Some patients may find that their insurance covers a substantial portion of TMS therapy for anxiety costs, making it more accessible. Myth #5: TMS Is A Last Resort Another misconception is that TMS should only be considered when all other treatment options have failed. While TMS is sometimes recommended after other treatments have been ineffective, it can also be a viable choice as a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, especially when individuals prefer non-medication options or have concerns about potential side effects. Fact: TMS Can Be Considered at Any Stage The decision to pursue TMS for anxiety should be based on an individual's unique circumstances and preferences. It is not limited to being a last resort and can be discussed with a mental health professional at any stage of treatment planning. Myth #6: TMS Results Are Temporary Concerns about the temporary nature of TMS benefits can deter some from exploring this therapy. While individual responses may vary, many individuals experience long-lasting relief from anxiety symptoms after completing a full course of TMS treatment for anxiety. Fact: TMS Can Provide Lasting Benefits Research has shown that the positive effects of TMS on anxiety can persist for months to years after treatment. Some individuals may require maintenance sessions, but TMS has the potential to offer enduring relief from anxiety symptoms. Summing Up Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) isn't just about tackling depression; it's got a promising role in helping folks wrestling with anxiety disorders too. By shedding light on the myths surrounding TMS and getting the facts straight about its safety, effectiveness, and potential insurance coverage, we're here to arm you with the knowledge you need to make smart choices about your mental health. Now, let's be real – TMS isn't a magic wand that makes all your anxiety vanish in an instant. It's more like a steady hand guiding you toward relief. It's gentle, non-invasive, and generally well-tolerated. For many, it's a ray of hope, offering a path to managing anxiety that doesn't involve medications or complex procedures. But here's the golden rule: always lean on the expertise of a qualified mental health professional when considering TMS therapy for anxiety. They're the compass guiding you through your unique mental health journey, helping you figure out if TMS is the right fit for your needs Read Also: 10 healthy Habits to improve your health How To Take Care Of Your Mental Health Living Healthily | Six Crucial Lifestyle Tips for College Freshmen

6 Eye Mistakes That Can Make Your Vision Worse

You're staring at a computer screen all day, and you think you're taking good care of your eyes. Your eyes feel fine, after all. And when it comes to proper eye care, you get regular checkups from NewVision Clinics - Eye Specialist in Melbourne and take the right steps to keep your vision in top shape. If you're not careful, however, you could be making a few eye mistakes that might be hurting your vision. How To Identify The Eye Problems? If your eyes are dry and irritated, there's a good chance you're overdoing it with eye drops. That's because many of these drops contain chemicals that get your eyes producing more tears than normal — but only for a short period of time. But once the effect wears off, your body compensates by producing even fewer tears than before. You can become dependent on eyedrops just to see clearly for a few minutes at a time. This is why using artificial tears for more than two or three days in a row is generally not recommended. Instead, use preservative-free eye drops sparingly (usually no more than four times per day). Our eyes are the only pair we've got, and many of us don't take proper care of them. Whether it's sleeping in our makeup or not wearing sunglasses on a sunny day, there are many ways we can hurt our eyes on a daily basis. Here are three eye mistakes that could be making your vision worse — and what to do about them. 6 Common Eye Mistakes Which Makes Your Vision Worse You are making many eye mistakes throughout life, from wrong power eyeglass wearing to applying bad eye drops. But apart from these, many more common mistakes hamper your eye's vision. Here are six mistakes that have an adverse effect on your eyesight. 1. You're Skipping The Sunglasses When you're walking around in bright conditions, like snow or bright sky during the summer, it's important to wear sunglasses. Not only is this a good idea for your general health-protecting your eyes from UV rays — but it can also help keep you from blinking. Going out without proper protective sunglasses is one of the common eye mistakes. But it can happen at any time. So it is better to take the tap and remember to wear sunglasses. Constant squinting can lead to the development of crow's feet, which are fine lines around the eyes that can make you look older than you really are. If that isn't enough reason to wear them, consider this: According to a study published in JAMA Ophthalmology, long-term exposure to UV radiation has been linked with cataracts in middle-aged adults. And if you're worried about how they look on you, check out these five tips to find the perfect pair of sunglasses for your face shape. 2. Not Eating Right A healthy diet is good for your whole body, including your eyes. "There are certain nutrients — carotenoids, vitamins C and E and omega-3 fatty acids — that have beneficial effects on our eyes," Dr. Ritterband says. Improper diet maintenance is solid eye mistakes. You probably do not know the right nutrition, which is keeping your eyes healthy. But the fish and green vegetables have the right vitamin A and D sources, which are eye boosters. 3. Not Wearing Sunglasses Outside It’s easy to think that sunglasses are just another fashion accessory, but they’re really an essential tool for protecting your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Exposure to UV light can cause cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, two of the leading causes of blindness in older adults. UVR also can damage the skin around the eyes, which can increase your risk of developing basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, two common types of skin cancer. Wear sunglasses labeled with “UV 400” or “100% UVA/UVB protection” every time you go outdoors — even on cloudy days — to protect your eyes from damaging UVR. 4. Using Antibiotics Too Much "There is a fear that if you have an inflamed cornea, people worry that it might get infected," Melmed said. "In most cases, it doesn't get infected." Antibiotics have eye mistakes effects; they can cause allergic reactions and sometimes even bacterial resistance, he said. 5. Not Getting Regular Eye Exams It's important to see an ophthalmologist every year, Melmed said. During the exam, he or she will check for early signs of glaucoma and macular degeneration, which can be treated if caught early enough. Avoiding the scheduled eye check-ups are eye mistakes. Try to avoid it consciously. We all know going for the regular check-up is a little time taking process. But to maintain eye health, you have to do it. 6. Using Artificial Tears The reason many people have dry eyes is not that their tear glands aren't producing enough tears. Rather, it's because their blink reflex doesn't work properly, and their tears evaporate too quickly from the surface of their eyes. In this case, artificial tears only worsen the situation by drying out the surface of your eyes even more. Instead of using over-the-counter artificial tears, try to blink more often and learn how to massage your eyelids properly in order to improve the blink reflex (you can find instructions in my Natural Vision Improvement Kit). Conclusion: All of these six eye mistakes are common. But on your regular days, you are making these mistakes without knowing them. So it is better to tap on and avoid making mistakes. If you are facing troubled vision. First, identify the problem systems and then ask the consults from the eye doctor. Read Also: 3 Top Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy How To Care For Your Eye In 5 Medically Proven Ways How To Buy Glasses With Vision Direct Contacts vs Glasses: Which of These Two Eyesight Improving Methods

7 Myths About Fitness Gadgets And Wearables busted

We live in the golden age of digital, technological, scientific, medical, and social progress. Today, the development is defined almost entirely by the banal improvements in the technology. Digital health and fitness is now the center of attraction for everybody. We can’t imagine life without them. Surely, every day or the other we can see something new coming into the market. These days, fitness gadgets and wearables have created a lot of buzz, and you would find every other person having something smart in ‘their’ hands. These gadgets are a boon for the health-conscious people. But as they are an advantage to society, there are many misconceptions and myths which are attached to it. Let me point towards a few of them so that you have a better idea of what to avoid the next time you think of buying a fitness gadget. Wearables are fad If you’re saying so then you’re a fad! Wearables are definitely going to change. Some would become invisible, some will be disposed of, some will be fashion items and others would be implanted somewhere or the other. But the one thing which remains the same is that if we want to know more about us, we ought to know more about these wearables. Smartwatches needs smartphones This is not true all the time. Some of the big brands have SIM cards slots available inside the smartwatches for the solo connectivity. You wouldn’t need to pair them up with the smartwatches. These watches don’t require you to have a smartphone in your pocket to track down and record your exercise data. 5000 steps burn 200 calories This is not always true. These fitness belts also depend upon many factors such as body weight and age. Also, it depends upon “how briskly you’re walking?” “What’s your stride length?” “Are those steps up or down the hill? Also, the footsteps of many people can be varying. If you’re on a weight loss plan, don’t count your calories this way. Eat a little less; about a quarter of what you’re usually eating, walk about 10 thousand steps, and you’d surely reap the benefits. Wearable payments are not safe The truth is that it is safer than most of the contactless and cashless payments. A wearable is connected to your debit or credit card, and each time you tap, the payment is taken off. Also, there are certain limits per transaction, so it would be difficult for someone to take out your money as the system would auto decline them. Sleep tracker smart alarms would make you feel better It is not true in all cases and situations. Smart alarms are capable of detecting your phase of sleep and demonstrate how “smart” the technology is rather something that we actually need in our lives. Wearables would make you look at screens all-day No, this is simply not true. Wearables are made to look away from the screen of your phone. Of course, you need to peep inside the screen of your watch. But the idea here is that they act as devices which can filter out the noise of your mobile. In a quick glance, you can select which phones to pick up. An eye at your arm helps you in ignoring the “not-so-important” social media buzz. These things would help you in socially detoxifying yourself. Heart-rate monitors on watches are not enough accurate The deal here is these heart monitors are more accurate than most of the other Heart-rate monitors available in the market. And of course, they are getting more accurate day by day. So, if you want to buy a smart gadget, keep this important stuff in mind. Also, don’t get carried away with what people have to bluff about these beautiful pieces of innovation. Read also: 13 Best Herbs that Boost your Metabolism Top 5 Life Hacks Of Dealing With The Symptoms Of Menopause

8 Motivations to Start Up Health & Fitness