Name one widespread issue related to health in the developed world. You might say obesity, or perhaps the rising number of people suffering from depression. None of these answers are wrong. But they all have a common cause, one that Sweatcoin has in its crosshairs – a lack of physical activity.
Nearly two-thirds of Europeans spend an average of 4 hours or more sitting each day. Toiling in the fields has long been replaced by sitting at a computer. Plus, with so many fun and pleasurable things to do, it’s hard to dedicate time to keeping active.
But why is this a problem?
Short-term benefits are an instant fix. Great as a pick me up, or a shoulder to cry on. But when the going gets tough, it’s healthy behavior that’ll get you through the hard times. Walking, jogging, dancing, playing tennis – these are all great forms of therapy.
From weight loss to anxiety, physical activity and healthy behavior can have a powerful impact on your health. Armed with the will to get moving, we can combat a range of conditions, from depression to obesity. But first, let’s discuss some of these in more detail.
Obesity
Why is it that in the 70s, when we were consuming 20% more calories than in the 90s, people were slimmer? Surely in 2019 with all the hype around healthy food and wellness, shouldn’t obesity be on its last legs?
Well, the answer is simple. Are you sitting while you read this? Have you been sitting for most of the day? Bingo. That’s the big fat problem; our inactive lifestyles. We spend most of the day shuffling from one sitting activity to the next, from trains to office chairs, before ending the day on the sofa.
We don’t want a world where everyone looks the same. You should love how you look, whatever size and shape you are. But when your weight affects your health, it’s time to make some lifestyle changes.
Obesity puts you at a greater risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, musculoskeletal disorders, and cancers. Health services are overwhelmed with conditions related to obesity, including type 2 diabetes. In Britain, the NHS (National Health Service) dishes out £10 billion ($12.8 billion) on obese patients a year.
Even though we’re living longer than ever before, the trend in obesity indicates that the life expectancy of children will continue to fall, unless we take action now.
Depression
Our lives have gotten easier, but not necessarily simpler. 91% of Generation Z (15 – 21-year-olds) in the U.S. have reported having symptoms of depression and anxiety associated with stress. Living in the information age has caused many young people to question their self-worth, and adults too can feel a sense of inadequacy from comparing their lives to others on social media platforms.
Regular exercise can ease the symptoms of these conditions, and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
What’s the solution?
Movement is a natural healer, and one of our greatest tools for improving happiness and our wellbeing. And, what’s more, these are activities we all have access to. Walking and running have been identified as effective forms of treatment for obesity and mental health issues.
Does this involve throbbing legs and buckets of sweat? Not at all. A simple brisk walk has the power to change your mood and improve your health. Try mixing things up by exploring new routes to the office. Listen to your favorite podcast next time you pop to the shops. Find the perfect hilltop for an awesome sunset snap. Unleash your adventurous side!
Adults are recommended to spend 150 – 300 minutes exercising a week; this can be anything from walking or jogging to tennis or dancing. Kids need 60 minutes a day, and taking your little ones to the playground can double as a workout for you too!
How can Sweatcoin help?
We know, overcoming the short-term temptations sounds easier said than done. But that’s where we come in. Our app gives you that nudge to walk instead of taking the easy option. To jog around the park instead of watching a tv show. Rather than focussing on kilometers, you can watch your Sweatcoin balance grow instead – we believe this is more instantly rewarding. And before you know it, your body will be reaping those long-term benefits. Download Sweatcoin, and never walk for free again.
