fbpx

53. Cryptocurrency steps – What is Move to Earn (M2E)?

Imagine earning cryptocurrency just for walking, working out, or going for a run. Sounds like the future? It’s already here. The Move-to-Earn (M2E) model combines blockchain technology with physical activity and proves that a healthy lifestyle can literally pay off.

What Is Move-to-Earn?

Move-to-Earn is a trend born at the intersection of Web3, gaming, and fitness apps. Simply put – users get rewarded with tokens for real-life movement, such as walking, jogging, or exercising. The apps use GPS to track activity and pay out crypto tokens in return. These tokens can then be traded or exchanged for other cryptocurrencies.

Although the concept sounds attractive, most M2E apps require an upfront investment – usually in the form of buying NFT sneakers or characters. More on that below.

Pros and Cons of Move-to-Earn

Pros:

  • Motivates users to stay active

  • Combines health with real earning potential

  • A hands-on way to enter the Web3 space

Cons:

  • High entry barrier (NFT purchase required)

  • Token price volatility can affect earnings

  • Heavily dependent on the success of individual apps

Most Popular Move-to-Earn Apps (as of September 9, 2025)

STEPN (GMT and GST): This app remains the market leader. Following a successful collaboration with Adidas, the project is now focusing on new major partnerships. The community-awaited “Trailblazer Challenge” is also underway, which aims to encourage users to cover longer distances.

Sweatcoin (SWEAT): An app that gained popularity thanks to its simple step-reward model. The project has announced a strategic partnership with apparel giant Nike, allowing users to buy physical products with their earned SWEAT tokens. They have also introduced new, exclusive challenges.

MetaGym (MGNC): This is an innovative fitness platform in a virtual world. Their AI-powered virtual coach system is becoming increasingly popular, and virtual sports equipment is selling better and better on the NFT market.

Step App (FITFI and KCAL): This app focuses on sports competition. The finals of the regional leagues are currently underway with high prizes, which is highly engaging the community. The creators have also announced new game modes that will reward users for cycling.

Calo (CALO): An app that introduced an innovative “breeding” system for NFT-shoes, allowing users to create unique pairs with rare traits. This has revitalized the market, and its integration with popular health apps like Google Fit and Apple Health makes it a still-popular platform.

Genopets (GENE): This is a combination of a “Tamagotchi” game and physical activity. Users raise virtual pets that evolve with their activity. The project continues to attract new players with regular events and rewards.

Summary

Move-to-Earn is a promising development in the crypto world, merging wellness, technology, and finance. While it’s not yet as widespread as Play-to-Earn gaming, it’s gaining ground alongside the global push for healthier lifestyles.

The main hurdle remains the high entry cost – NFTs or special gear may be too expensive for many users. Still, as the trend matures, we’re likely to see more affordable models and broader adoption. It’s definitely a space to watch.

Sign up for the newsletter!

Receive the latest cryptocurrency news in your email every week.