8 Motivations to Start Up Health & Fitness

Published on: 18 March 2020 Last Updated on: 07 February 2026

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.

Read Also:

8 Fitness Hacks That Will Make Your Life Better
How Do I Get Back In Shape? Fitness Experts Share Their Tips!

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Tonsillitis Treatment Without Antibiotics: What You Need to Know

Tonsillitis, a common condition characterized by inflammation of the tonsils, can be incredibly uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. Antibiotics have historically been the first line of treatment when treating tonsillitis. However, a growing number of people are looking for alternate ways to manage this illness due to worries about side effects and antibiotic resistance. This blog will address vital topics, including the cost of tonsil removal surgery in the UK and the recuperation period for adults after tonsillectomy. It will also look into the options available for treating tonsillitis. An Overview of Tonsillitis Condition Most often, bacterial or viral illnesses result in tonsillitis. Frequent signs and symptoms include fever, swollen glands, sore throat, trouble swallowing, and occasionally yellow or white spots on the tonsils. Antibiotic treatment is often necessary for bacterial tonsillitis to avoid complications like strep throat or a peritonsillar abscess. However, viral tonsillitis typically goes away independently with rest and supportive care. How To Cure Tonsillitis Without Antibiotics 1. Home Remedies Using home treatments like drinking warm liquids like herbal teas or broths, gargling with salt water, and using throat lozenges or sprays to relieve irritation are common ways to get relief from tonsillitis symptoms. Also, ensuring adequate hydration and relaxation can bolster the body's inbuilt defense mechanism against the infection. 2. Herbal Remedies Herbal treatments with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting qualities, like slippery elm, licorice root, and echinacea, may help reduce the symptoms of tonsillitis. But before using herbal supplements, you should always speak with a doctor, particularly if you have underlying medical issues or are on other prescriptions. 3. Pain Management Acetaminophen or ibuprofen, two over-the-counter pain medications, can help lower tonsillitis-related fever and pain. Aspirin should not be given to youngsters due to the risk of Reye's syndrome; instead, it is crucial to abide by the prescribed dosage requirements. 4. Warm Compresses Applying a warm compress to the neck can help ease throat discomfort and reduce swelling of the tonsils. 5. Humidifiers Using a humidifier in the bedroom can add moisture to the air, which may help soothe a sore throat and alleviate dryness. 6. Probiotics Probiotics are good bacteria that are included in yogurt and other fermented foods. Some studies show they can strengthen the immune system and lessen the intensity and length of tonsillitis symptoms. 7. Avoiding Irritants It's essential to avoid irritants such as cigarette smoke, pollution, and dry air, as these can exacerbate symptoms and prolong recovery. Even though these treatments can help with tonsillitis symptoms, it's essential to keep a careful eye on your illness and consult a doctor if symptoms intensify or last longer than a few days. Tonsil Removal Surgery Cost UK A tonsillectomy is frequently advised when the tonsillitis is severe or recurring and does not improve with other therapies. A tonsillectomy is a surgical treatment usually carried out under general anesthesia to remove the tonsils. The price of tonsil removal surgery varies in the UK based on several variables, including the particular hospital or clinic, the surgeon's fees, and other medical costs. The National Health Service (NHS) reports that about 40,000 tonsillectomies are carried out in England annually. The frequency and intensity of tonsillitis episodes, the procedure's possible dangers and advantages, and the effect on one's quality of life are often considered while removing one's tonsils surgically. Before having tonsil removal surgery, reviewing the possible expenses and financing options with your insurance company and healthcare practitioner is crucial to ensure you know what to expect financially. Tonsillectomy Recovery in Adults The length of recovery following a tonsillectomy can vary based on a patient's age, general health, and surgical complexity. Adults may require a more extended recovery following a tonsillectomy, although children typically recover more rapidly. It's normal to have ear pain, swallowing difficulties, and throat pain during the early stages of rehabilitation. To help with discomfort relief and healing, your healthcare practitioner might advise a soft diet and give painkillers. It's critical to carefully adhere to post-operative care guidelines, including drinking enough water, avoiding physically demanding activities, and obtaining lots of rest. After a tonsillectomy, most adults can return to regular activities in two weeks, though complete recovery may take several weeks. Attending all your follow-up sessions with your healthcare practitioner is essential to tracking your recovery and addressing any issues. Conclusion Although tonsillitis has historically been treated primarily with antibiotics, other non-antibiotic methods exist for treating this ailment. Herbal therapies, home cures, and supportive care techniques can all aid in symptom relief and healing. In cases where tonsillitis is recurrent or severe, a tonsillectomy may be necessary. Comprehending the possible expenses and recuperation duration linked to tonsil excision surgery is crucial to making well-informed choices regarding available treatments. People can efficiently cure tonsillitis and reduce the risk of complications by looking into non-antibiotic treatments and, where necessary, contemplating surgical options. Always see a healthcare expert for individualized advice and treatment recommendations based on your unique needs and circumstances. Read Also: Integrating Therapy And Activities In Residential Treatment Benefits Of Early Detection And Treatment Of Alzheimer’s Disease Navigating Depression Treatment In Brooklyn: Your Options

How to Treat the Symptoms of 5 Common Gastrointestinal Conditions

Everyone experiences heartburn from time to time or has the occasional upset stomach. But for those who experience these symptoms more frequently, it could be a sign of long-term Gastrointestinal Conditions. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 60 to 70 million people in the U.S. are affected by gastrointestinal issues. But what exactly is a" gastrointestinal issue," and what parts of your body can experience the impact? Gastrointestinal Health 101 The gastrointestinal system gives your body what it needs to function. The system breaks down food, extracts nutrients from it, and converts these nutrients into energy. It also protects your body against harmful substances by blocking them from your bloodstream. The gastrointestinal tract primarily consists of the following: Esophagus: A hollow tube running through the neck and chest that connects the mouth to the stomach. Muscles in the esophagus push food into the stomach. Stomach: A large organ that holds foods and breaks them down using enzymes and acids. Liver: The organ that filters toxins from the blood and produce bile, which further helps break down food into proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Gallbladder: A sac-like organ that stores the bile the liver produces then releases it as necessary. Pancreas: An organ that produces enzymes like insulin, which aids in the breakdown of sugars. Small intestine: As the stomach passes along food, this organ starts breaking it down while absorbing the majority of its nutrients. Large intestine: This organ contains billions of bacteria that turn food into waste (feces). At this same time, the large intestines remove water and electrolytes from what is left of the food for your body's use. Rectum: A small space at the end of the large intestine provides temporary storage for waste. When you eat something, each of these organs plays a role. To kick off the process, saliva begins to break down food. With the help of other enzymes, food continues breaking down as your system propels it by muscular contractions through the digestive tract. This process is called peristalsis. Gastrointestinal organs and their fluids exist in a delicate balance. Diet, stress, and illness can upset this balance and cause pain or discomfort. Common Gastrointestinal Conditions and Disorders There are a variety of common gastrointestinal (GI) disorders like constipation, diarrhea, and acid reflux. Though some Gastrointestinal Conditions are genetic and outside of your control, you can still prevent many complications or subdue symptoms by eating a balanced diet, practicing healthy bowel habits, and following the CDC guidelines for cancer screening. Some common disorders—like celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, and leaky gut syndrome—are generally manageable with proper care and direction from medical professionals. If you experience severe pain or think you may have a more serious condition, see your doctor as soon as possible. 1. Celiac Disease Celiac disease is an immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. People with this problem cannot eat food made from these substances because it triggers a response in their small intestine, which over time becomes inflamed and unable to absorb nutrients. If you have celiac disease, you'll feel sick after eating something with gluten. Symptoms include bloating and gas, abdominal pain, fatigue, and nausea. Though there's presently no cure, most people who follow a strict gluten-free diet can reduce flare-ups and promote intestinal healing. 3. GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease (or GERD) is a condition where your stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, irritating the esophagus's lining. It is essentially the same as acid reflux, except the symptoms are more intense and frequent. Common symptoms include a burning sensation in your chest after eating, having difficulty swallowing, and feeling like there's a lump in your throat. You may also regurgitate food or sour liquid. People with GERD often feel worse at night, which can cause other problems like a chronic cough, laryngitis, asthma, and disrupted sleep. There are over-the-counter remedies such as antacids and H2 blockers, but more intense symptoms may require prescription medication. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, eating large meals, or eating late at night can aggravate GERD. 3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common GI disorder that affects the large intestine. If you have this chronic condition, you will feel abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, certain factors play a role. Someone with IBS may have abnormalities in their digestive system or may have had a bacterial or viral infection that left an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. Changes in gut microbes can also lead to IBS. Though there is no cure for IBS, taking medications, and making lifestyle changes can alleviate the symptoms. For example, you can exercise regularly, eat smaller meals, and focus on minimizing stress. In terms of regulating your diet, you can try consuming more probiotics and limiting caffeine, dairy products, and spicy foods. Medicalprices.co.uk has a complete guide about IBS. 4. Lactose Intolerance Lactose intolerant individuals cannot break down lactose, the natural sugar in milk. If you're lactose intolerant, your small intestine doesn't produce enough lactase (the enzyme) to digest lactose (the milk sugar). Undigested lactose then moves into your large intestine, where it interacts with the bacteria, causing bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Aside from avoiding dairy products altogether, lactose intolerants can take over-the-counter lactase enzyme tablets that aid in dairy digestion. 5. Leaky Gut Syndrome As part of the digestive tract, the intestines allow water and nutrients to pass through their walls while blocking harmful substances. The ease with which substances pass through the intestinal wall is called intestinal permeability. When this permeability becomes compromised, toxins and bacteria may escape from the intestines into the bloodstream. This condition is called a leaky gut syndrome, and if left unchecked, it can cause inflammation throughout the body. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, food sensitivity, fatigue, and skin problems. Though more research needs to be conducted on this condition, a few probable causes include: Consuming too much sugar or alcohol Long term use of anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen Deficiencies in vitamins A and D and zinc Chronic inflammation throughout the body Stress Bacterial imbalance in the intestines Yeast overgrowth in the digestive system To reduce symptoms, you can work on improving your overall gut health. First, you can limit your carb intake, as harmful bacteria thrive on sugar. You can also increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your body by eating foods with probiotics such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut. You may also want to consider powdered collagen protein supplements. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that gives structure to connective tissues, ligaments, and skin. The protein also provides structure to blood vessels and may strengthen compromised intestinal walls. Avoiding a Pain in the Gut While some gastrointestinal conditions can be severe, other GI issues and symptoms are common and manageable with lifestyle changes. If you maintain a healthy diet with your unique gastrointestinal needs in mind, you can treat your symptoms and live free of gut pain. 6 Effective Ways to Improve Your Mental Health Why Water Filter is Important to Improve Your Health? Symptoms and Effects of Co-occurring Disorder on Human Health 10 healthy habits to improve your health

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

8 Motivations to Start Up Health & Fitness