In a perfect world I would have time to go for a run everyday. But in the real world, as a busy mom, that’s not going to happen. So what if I could turn everyday routines into exercise? Now there’s a nifty little gadget that can help you do just that.
A new startup called Striiv created a fitness device that’s like pedometer meets gaming, with a charity component to boot. It’s small enough to fit on your keychain, but powerful enough to measure every step taken throughout your day, and then it offers you rewards for various achievements which really does keep you motivated.
If you’re thinking it would also be a cool gadget for an older kid, I’d agree. The device’s high resolution color screen and touch interface is easy enough for all ages to use. Plus it lasts a good week on battery, so you aren’t constantly charging it.
As for the gaming aspect, Striiv offers the MyLand enchanted island game that’s activity based. i.e., Not Farmville. If you want to grow a plant, you’re going to have to get moving. Fun!
Striiv also enables charity on the go by partnering with GlobalGiving. Every step taken can go towards a donation to a charity via a dedicated fund.
I would just be thrilled if running after my boys burned enough calories each day to count as a workout. We will see. But either way, I love the idea of turning my grocery shopping into a fitness opportunity. In fact, I might want to just comb those aisles one last time–to make sure I didn’t forget anything, of course. -Beth
Striiv retails for $99 per device. Future releases will have family packs and social features.
I didn’t get to SEE one of these with my own eyeballs, but I’m dying to try one out! I like the look but I want to see how big it is?
Carissa, it’s smaller than a pager, you carry it in your pocket or purse. It doesn’t need to be “on” to register your activity, throw it in your pocket or your purse. I’m using it with some co-workers and we have found ourselves IMMEDIATELY addicted! “Comb the aisles one last time” – absolutely! You get awards for such little activity and it lets you earn more possibilities in the game-portion so quickly and easily that you hardly realize you’ve checked the mailbox 5 times just to get extra points. Parking farther away? Not a problem. I never thought of myself as a “gamer” but we’re having so much fun comparing strategies and accomplishments. I walked 7 miles Friday because I wanted to buy the “best” tree – Randy’s jealous!