Healthcare Technology Featured Article

August 11, 2011

Free App: Get Fit, Win Rewards


With a mounting obesity epidemic in the U.S., the need for new and innovative ways to promote health and fitness are more crucial than ever before. From young children spending more time in front of the T.V. to adults spending a majority of their day sitting in front a computer - the growing rates of this epidemic are alarming.

According to a recent report by the Trust for America's Health, “Twenty years ago, no state had an obesity rate above 15 percent.  Today, more than two out of three states – 38 total – have obesity rates over 25 percent, and just one has a rate lower than 20 percent.”

Fitness apps are one of the latest mobile trends increasing in popularity because they offer a way to make working out fun, and convenient.

Mobile fitness apps can help track the distance/calories burned during physical activity; keep a log of daily calories, and offer tips and advice right at user’s fingertips. Now add to this capability the chance to win some sweet rewards for getting fit – and you’ve got me sold!

Nexercise is a free app that rewards its users for living active lifestyles. And the proof that people like to be rewarded for their efforts can be found in the over 300 reviews, average 4.5 star rating, and daily triple-digit download rates since the release of its latest version, Nexercise 1.7 last week.

The latest version includes a host of new features to help make user experiences more pleasurable, while also making working out less of a chore.The app works by gauging a user’s physical activity and then providing virtual medals including discounts on healthy food and free merchandise.  

According to the company, “Nexercise rewards and influences behaviors not outcomes by making exercise more fun and giving user’s opportunities to win big.”New key features added to the latest version include:

A redesigned user interface created in partnership with usability experts at the Apple WWDC.

A new partnership with Silicon Valley venture-backed company Kiip to provide even more compelling rewards for users – including free merchandise from companies like Sephora and 1-800-Flowers.com.

New, engaging graphics that offer better visualization of user progress.

“Being healthy is a mindset. The way we challenge traditional thought is by making physical activity more fun and rewarding through our mobile app,” the company said.

Download this app for free in the iPhone app store.

Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO West 2011, taking place Sept. 13-15, 2011, in Austin, Texas. ITEXPO offers an educational program to help corporate decision makers select the right IP-based voice, video, fax and unified communications solutions to improve their operations. It's also where service providers learn how to profitably roll out the services their subscribers are clamoring for – and where resellers can learn about new growth opportunities. To register, click here.



Stefania Viscusi is an assignment editor for HealthTechZone, covering voice and Voice over IP technologies. She also oversees production of HealthTechZone's e-Newsletters in the areas of Internet telephony and speech technology. To read more of Stefania's articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Jennifer Russell
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