There is no denying that in this digital age that kids probably aren’t getting quite as much physical activity as they should. But GeoPalz might have a solution to help keep kids trim. The company has introduced a line of kid-friendly pedometers featuring unique designs including hearts, peace signs, fairies and even “Skulls and Guitars.” These simple devices are hip, while meant to be worn on the hip, and more importantly help encourage kids to wear them daily.
Each one has a unique 8-digit code that is can be used to login into the GeoPalz website, which tracks the steps kids make during the day. As the users progress further in the GeoPalz virtual world they collect a “point” for every real mile they walk. These points can be redeemed for free items including hacky sacks, plush soccer balls and Frisbees. “Milestone” Awards can further be printed out and hung on the fridge or on a bedroom wall.
Advance settings with the computer world include the ability to time out after five minutes, to encourage the child to get off the computer and get outside again. Parents can add birth date, stride range for the user (from 12 to 48-inches) and even add weight so the pedometer can further calculate how much physical energy was used through the day. With the incentive of free prizes, kids might be willing to walk to school, uphill both ways just like their parents.