8 Motivations to Start Up Health & Fitness

fitness

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:

Tep

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

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

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.

Perspyre

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

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

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

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

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:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Clear Aligners

Why Are Clear Aligners Popular For Winnipeg Teens?

Winnipeg, the vibrant heart of Canada's Manitoba province, is a city woven with diverse cultures, historical significance, and a youthful vibrancy. This bustling prairie city, home to the iconic intersection at Portage and Main, boasts sprawling urban parks and a community keen on embracing innovation. Among these trends is the rising preference for Invisalign Winnipeg, a clear aligner system that is gaining popularity, particularly among the teenage population. The Appeal of Aesthetics For teens in Winnipeg who live in a city that celebrates events like the Festival du Voyageur and the Winnipeg Folk Festival, maintaining a presentable image is often part of the social fabric. Clear aligners offer a discreet way to improve dental alignment without the visual impact of metal braces. These virtually invisible trays enable teens to smile confidently while attending school events, proms, and casual get-togethers. Comfort and Convenience Factors Another crucial aspect of clear aligners that resonates with this age group is the comfort and convenience they provide. The custom-fitted trays are designed to snugly cover the teeth without the discomfort of brackets and wires associated with traditional braces. This is particularly beneficial in a city known for its love of hearty foods and active lifestyles. Teens can easily remove their aligners to enjoy a plate of Winnipeg's famous pierogies or a social barbeque at The Forks without hassle. Oral Health Benefits When it comes to good oral hygiene, clear aligners simplify the process. The ability to remove the aligners allows for thorough cleaning of the teeth, leading to better overall oral health. This is an attractive feature for Winnipeg's health-conscious families who understand the importance of a solid dental care routine amidst their busy lives filled with schoolwork and extracurricular activities. Tailored to Teen Lifestyles Aligner treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, making them a suitable option for the varied lifestyles of Winnipeg's teens. Whether they are aspiring performers at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre or athletes on the hockey rink, clear aligners don't impose significant lifestyle restrictions. This customization and flexibility are aligned with the city's spirit of personal freedom and individual expression. The Role of Technology in Adoption The city's engagement with technological advancement also plays a role in the popularity of aligners. With the availability of Invisalign in Winnipeg, orthodontists provide a cutting-edge, digitally-driven approach to teeth straightening. This resonates deeply with a generation that is not only tech-savvy but also values precision and customization in their dental care solutions. Social Perception and Peer Influence Social perception plays a significant role in a teen's choice of clear aligners. In the social dynamics of high school, where peer influence is paramount, the discreet nature of clear aligners means teens can avoid the 'brace face' stigma and feel more comfortable in their social circles. Supportive Dental Communities Winnipeg's dental community is known for its supportive and informative approach. Dentists and orthodontists in the city are at the forefront of educating families about the benefits of clear aligners, contributing to their popularity. Regular seminars and school programs help demystify orthodontic options and reinforce the advantages of newer, less invasive methods. Long-Term Investment and Future Smiles Finally, Winnipeg families view clear aligners as a long-term investment in their teens' future. A straight, healthy smile can have significant psychological benefits, influencing confidence and social interactions. As Winnipeg teens look forward to future careers, be it in the local industries or beyond, they and their parents consider the boost in self-esteem and the positive impact of a winning smile on their prospects. Know Some Important Things While Getting  The Clear Aligners? There is no doubt about the fact that the clear aligners make an increment in the overall aesthetics. They are in high demand, which is why people, mainly youngsters, prefer them.  1. Speed Might Get Impaired For Some Days Most people experience trouble pronouncing certain words when initiating their clear aligners journey. It's, therefore, quite normal to possess the lisp during the period of adjustment. The best way to get past it is to slow down when talking. It is the best way out. 2. People Won’t See The Device When you use a clear aligner, others can't gauge if or not an individual is wearing the clear aligner. It is the best way to keep yourself safe. People won’t be able to view the devices.  3. The Care Users Must Take Them Out For Meals Taking out the clear braces while surrounded by friends at the lunch counter is indeed the best idea. The care users need to look out for a bathroom or some other private area where they can easily remove the device and insert it after meals. The patients must avoid eating with the clear braces at all costs. 4. The Clear Braces Are Indeed More Popular  Many people wear clear braces globally. But it is indeed hard since it is almost impossible to see them. The metal braces are indeed more popular compared to what you think they are. Therefore, if you are looking anxious and are wondering about whether or not to wear the braces, do not worry, as hundreds of people use them worldwide.  5. The Patients Must Wash Their Meals  If you are thinking of using them, you must unquestionably wear them after every meal. 6. The Treatments Are Likely To Take A Longer Time Digital imaging makes it nearly impossible for dentists to make accurate projections on teeth, wearing clear braces for a particular amount of time. However, you can not hurry as this treatment methodology takes a substantial amount of time.  Conclusion In conclusion, the popularity of clear aligners among Winnipeg's youth can be attributed to aesthetic preference, functionality, technological integration, and social factors. Aligners align with the city's identity – innovative, youth-oriented, and community-driven. As Winnipeg continues to grow and embrace new technologies, clear aligners will likely remain a preferred choice for teen orthodontic care, supporting the next generation in achieving not just aligned teeth but also aligned goals for health and success. Read Also: Choosing The Best Dental Care In Gramercy Best Paying Jobs In Medical/Dental Instruments How Many Jobs Are Available In Medical/Dental Instruments?

READ MOREDetails
Post-Sinus Surgery Recovery

9 Essential Tips For Post-Sinus Surgery Recovery In Houston

Sinus surgery can be a life-changing procedure for chronic sinus issues. However, recovery is crucial for ensuring optimal results and minimal discomfort. If you've recently undergone sinus surgery in Houston, Texas, or are planning to do so, understanding how to navigate the postoperative period is essential. Explore nine essential tips to help you recover smoothly. 1. Follow Your Surgeon's Instructions: Your sinus and snoring specialist in Houston will provide personalized post-operative instructions based on the specifics of your surgery. This guidance may include details about medication schedules, wound care techniques, and activity restrictions. Following these instructions diligently is paramount for a successful recovery. Your surgeon's expertise and recommendations are tailored to optimize your healing process and minimize the risk of complications. Adhering to their guidance can promote faster healing and improve your overall outcome. 2. Take Rest Seriously: After sinus surgery, your body needs ample time to recuperate and heal. While it's natural to feel eager to resume your regular activities, prioritizing rest is crucial during the initial stages of recovery. Avoid strenuous physical exertion and heavy lifting, as these activities can strain your healing tissues and impede recovery. Instead, allocate sufficient time for rest, allowing your body to redirect its energy towards tissue repair and regeneration. You can facilitate a smoother and more expedited recovery by honoring your body's need for rest. 3. Keep Your Head Elevated: Maintaining an elevated head position is key to minimizing post-operative swelling and promoting optimal drainage of nasal secretions. Whether resting or sleeping, ensure your head remains elevated above your heart level. Utilize additional pillows or invest in a specialized wedge pillow to achieve a comfortable angle. Elevating your head can alleviate discomfort, reduce nasal congestion, and enhance overall breathing comfort. This simple yet effective strategy supports healing and contributes to a more comfortable recovery experience. 4. Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential for supporting your body's healing mechanisms and optimizing recovery following sinus surgery. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your nasal passages moist and facilitate the clearance of mucus and debris. Opt for plain water or non-caffeinated beverages, as caffeinated and alcoholic drinks can contribute to dehydration and nasal irritation. Maintaining proper hydration levels can promote tissue healing, prevent post-operative complications, and enhance overall well-being throughout the recovery period. 5. Use Nasal Irrigation: Nasal irrigation, also known as nasal saline or nasal lavage, is beneficial for promoting nasal hygiene and accelerating post-operative recovery. Your sinus surgeon may recommend a saline solution or provide you with a nasal irrigation kit for home use. You can gently flush your nasal passages with a saline solution to remove excess mucus, blood, and debris, reducing congestion and promoting optimal healing. As your surgeon directs, incorporate nasal irrigation into your daily routine to maintain clear nasal passages and support a speedy recovery. 6. Avoid Blowing Your Nose: Following sinus surgery, you must refrain from blowing your nose forcefully, as this can disrupt delicate healing tissues and increase the risk of complications. Instead, adopt gentle nasal hygiene practices, such as dabbing or wiping away nasal discharge with soft tissues. If you experience the urge to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to minimize pressure within the nasal cavity. By avoiding forceful blowing and adopting gentle nasal care techniques, you can safeguard your delicate nasal tissues and promote optimal healing in the postoperative period. Read Also: From Gym To Workplace: A Complete Guide To Lead A Healthy Lifestyle 7. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your sinus and snoring specialist in Houston are integral to your post-operative care plan. These appointments allow your surgeon to assess your progress, monitor healing, and address any emerging concerns or questions you may have. Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments can give you personalized guidance, adjustments to your treatment plan as needed, and reassurance regarding your recovery trajectory. Open communication with your surgeon ensures that any issues or complications can be promptly identified and addressed, promoting a smooth and successful recovery journey. 8. Gradually Resume Activities: As your recovery progresses, it's natural to feel eager to resume your normal activities and routines. However, it's essential to approach activity resumption gradually and cautiously to avoid undue strain or setbacks. Begin with light activities such as short walks or household chores, gradually increasing the intensity and duration as tolerated. Listen to your body's cues and avoid pushing yourself beyond your comfort level. Steer clear of activities that involve bending over or straining, as these actions can increase pressure within the sinuses and hinder the healing process. By gradually reintroducing activities into your routine, you can safely regain your strength and stamina while supporting optimal healing. 9. Listen To Your Body: It's crucial to tune in to your body's signals throughout the recovery process and respond accordingly. Pay close attention to any changes or symptoms you experience, such as increasing pain, swelling, or nasal congestion. If you notice any concerning signs or symptoms, don't hesitate to contact your sinus surgeon for guidance and assistance. Trust your instincts and prioritize your health and well-being above all else. By advocating for yourself and seeking prompt medical attention when needed, you can ensure that any issues or complications are addressed promptly, facilitating a smoother and more successful recovery from sinus surgery. Conclusion: Navigating the post-sinus surgery recovery process in Houston, Texas, requires careful attention and adherence to expert guidance. Individuals undergoing recovery are encouraged to prioritize self-care and follow their surgeon's recommendations for optimal healing. These nine essential tips are valuable guidelines to minimize discomfort and promote a smooth recovery journey. For those needing specialized care from a sinus and snoring specialist or allergy treatment in Houston, there are reputable clinics, including the Houston Allergy Clinic, offering expert services and personalized treatment options. Prospective patients can explore these options by scheduling an appointment with a trusted provider. To begin your journey to better sinus health today, visit this website and schedule an appointment. Read Also: 8 Awesome Health Benefits Of Dark Chocolate Ways To Balance Your Life With Healthy Hearing The Diet To Follow For A Healthy Gut

READ MOREDetails
Mental Health

6 Effective Ways to Improve Your Mental Health

Most people focus on building their muscles and abs to look good, but having a great body is not the only determinant of having good health. Another determinant is mental health which is often forgotten even though mental disorders are surging at a rapid rate for the past few years. Therefore, we should spend time building the health of our brains, and to facilitate that, we have listed here six practical ways you can employ to boost your mental health. 1. Develop a healthy net of relationships: Humans are made to be social animals, but loneliness has become the norm of modern times.  We mostly have digital voices to talk to like Siri and Bixby. Some reports in the United States have painted an alarming picture that loneliness has the same impact on the lifespan of humans as obesity. Therefore, avoid isolation and prioritize your positive relationships, and even if you do not have any, look for such connections because they will help you in remaining sane in this insane world. 2. Develop the habit of exercising: A growing body of scholarship has found a concrete relationship between exercise and reduction in mental maladies like stress, anxiety, and depression. It is stated that exercise releases 'feel-good hormones' called endorphins, which relieve not only the depression but also improve the quality of sleep. If you find yourself unable to hit the gym, take up some sport like football because it is a more entertaining way of achieving the same set of goals. Although, you are bound to get injured once in a while, but do not let that discourage you.  Also, do not take head injuries lightly and get a Neuroquant MRI immediately if you suffer a traumatic brain injury. 3. Keep challenging yourself: Do not get stagnant in your life, because nothing invites depression and anxiety more than monotony and depression. Therefore, even if you are at a good place in your life, keep setting new goals, and work diligently to achieve them. 4. Pay gratitude for all the things you have: Nothing ruins mental health more than negative thoughts like counting all the bad things in your life and practicing self-pity. Instead, make a gratitude journal and jot down all the small and big things you are grateful for, like a good family, decent health, your own home, a fun job, etc. 5. Watch your sleep: Sleeping is a crucial component of a healthy life, such that people suffering from sleep debt for a while tend to develop several mental disorders. Therefore, ensuring a quality sleep is paramount, but be aware that quality sleep is different from quantity sleep. For example, six hours of relaxing quality sleep are much better than nine hours of restless sleep. 6. Take care of yourself: Take some time for yourself and indulge in relaxing activities like traveling with your best friends, sleeping well, eating healthy, and meditating on the beach. Moreover, indulging in activities like massaging also have multiple mental health benefits like partial relief from stress and anxiety. You only live once; therefore, it is your responsibility to take care of yourself and live a life full of health, wealth, and wit, such that you are not left with any regrets. Read also: When Will Social Media Addiction Be Considered a Mental Health Condition? 5 Mental Health Benefits of Massage Therapy That You Must Know. 5 Protein Enriched Food To Improve Mental Health.

READ MOREDetails