It doesn’t matter if you blame Cheetos, McDonald’s, or first-person shooters. The fact remains there are a lot of overweight kids these days whose more or less inactive lifestyles set them up for heart disease in the future. So how do you keep the kiddies at least mildly interested in exercise? Why, plop down some cash for a GeoPalz pedometer.
The company has just unveiled their latest product, which is attached to the kids’ shoelaces and can measure their footsteps for up to 21 days. Why do this? It’s part of an ambitious program on behalf of the company to motivate kids beyond video game diversion. The motivation being prizes for distances logged in (the kids must create an account on the GeoPalz website) and assorted freebies.
How GeoPalz Works
GeoPalz is designed to be both fun and functional. The pedometer is small and lightweight, making it easy for kids to wear without discomfort. Once attached to their shoelaces, it tracks every step they take. The data is then uploaded to the GeoPalz website, where kids can see their progress and earn “pedpoints.” These points can be traded for various prizes, ranging from simple toys like Frisbees and jump ropes to more substantial rewards like baseball bats and footballs. For those who are more patient, saving up points can even earn them a bike or skateboard.
Here’s a good chunk of promotional text from:
“GeoPalz is the first fitness tracker that lets you ‘Walk to Win.’ The more steps you take, the more pedpoints you get. Trade’em in for all types of prizes, from Frisbees and jump ropes to baseball bats and footballs, you can also save your points to win a Bike or skateboard.”
The Importance of Physical Activity for Kids
Physical activity is crucial for children, not just for maintaining a healthy weight but also for overall well-being. Regular exercise helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, and boosts mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. In an age where screen time often outweighs playtime, tools like GeoPalz can be instrumental in encouraging kids to move more.
Though the GeoPalz concept may seem too juvenile for some, we do applaud its positive approach to children’s activities. By turning exercise into a game, GeoPalz makes physical activity more appealing to kids who might otherwise prefer sedentary activities like video games or watching TV. The added incentive of earning prizes provides an extra layer of motivation, making it more likely that kids will stick with the program.
A shoe pedometer will set you back $24.99, which is a small price to pay for the potential health benefits it offers. Not only does it encourage kids to be more active, but it also teaches them the value of setting and achieving goals. By making exercise fun and rewarding, GeoPalz is helping to combat the growing issue of childhood obesity and inactivity.
Via Gizmag
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