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:
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Motivates users to stay active
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Combines health with real earning potential
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A hands-on way to enter the Web3 space
Cons:
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High entry barrier (NFT purchase required)
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Token price volatility can affect earnings
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Heavily dependent on the success of individual apps
Most Popular Move-to-Earn Apps (as of May 2025)
1. STEPN (GMT and GST)
Runs on the Solana blockchain. Users buy NFT sneakers and earn tokens by walking or running. New features include sneaker leveling, additional earning modes, and special events like “Mystic Panda,” offering exclusive sneaker skins.
2. MetaGym (MGNC)
Web3-style fitness. Train with an NFT avatar and earn MGNC tokens, which can be reinvested into character development or rented out to other players. Now includes biometric data integration for personalized workouts.
3. Sweatcoin (SWEAT)
Rewards users for the number of steps. SWEAT can now be exchanged or invested into other cryptocurrencies. Recent updates added achievement badges and a 30-day activity rule: open the app at least once a month to keep your balance.
4. Step App (FITFI and KCAL)
Metaverse-based competition. Users earn tokens for physical activity and upgrade their virtual sports gear. FITFI is the governance token, while KCAL is used to mint and maintain NFT sneakers.
5. Calo (CALO)
Offers individual and group challenge modes. A new feature allows breeding of NFT sneakers, increasing earning potential. The app emphasizes promoting a healthy lifestyle through varied fitness challenges.
6. OliveX (DOSE)
Fitness platform in the metaverse. DOSE tokens are earned through different types of activities and spent on NFTs and upgrades. Players participate in games like Dustland Runner and Dustland Rider to earn rewards.
7. Genopets (GENE)
Combines digital pet care with physical activity. The more you move, the faster your Genopet evolves and the more GENE tokens you earn. New updates introduced an AI-powered adventure mode and a Qubits:GENE system to integrate the token into the game economy.
8. Dotmoovs (MOOV)
Compete in activities like dance or freestyle football. Movements are analyzed by AI, and MOOV tokens are earned to buy virtual items and upgrades. A new version of the MOOV token was launched in March 2025 and is now available for claiming.
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.
