As the mental health awareness month nears the end, we’d like to share news about an interesting app that could help you improve mental health while also getting rewards to do so.
Sweatcoin is a simple and free walking app that rewards a new-generation currency to its users upon walking. The currency can be used to purchase products from the Sweatcoin marketplace, donate to specific charities, and can also be converted into the SWEAT cryptocurrency scheduled to launch this summer. Their marketplace has thousands of goods including iPhones, high-tech shoes, yoga classes, and more.
The app has a built-in pedometer that counts steps and converts them into a currency. Sweatcoin is based on the idea that the more we move, the more society benefits, and the more we save in healthcare costs. So, everyone contributing to all this deserves a share, thus the reward for walking.
Sweatcoin has 600+ partners and 64 million users. The rewards are given through various partnerships, including partner brands that want to connect with health-conscious people, insurance companies that wish to promote healthier lifestyles, and governments looking to reduce healthcare costs.
Recently, the company also conducted a collaborative study with the University of Warwick that found a significant increase (19.5%) in the walking frequency of those who registered for Sweatcoin. A behavior change was also observed in 34% of participants. This shows that incentive-based physical activity could change behaviors.
The app is available for download on iOS and Android. As a public health professional, I think it’s a great app. In fact, I am going to download it right now!
