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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 October 17, 2025)

1. STEPN (GMT, GST)

The undisputed leader and pioneer that continues to set trends in the industry. In STEPN, you buy virtual sneakers in the form of an NFT and then earn tokens for walking, jogging, or running outdoors. The app has evolved into a complex ecosystem with different types of sneakers, upgrades, and earning strategies. Although it requires an initial investment, it remains the most popular choice due to its strong brand and engaged community.

2. Sweatcoin (SWEAT)

The app that introduced millions of people to the world of Move-to-Earn. Its biggest advantage is the lack of an entry barrier—earning SWEAT tokens for steps is completely free. The app runs in the background on your phone, counting every step. While the free earnings are modest, Sweatcoin offers premium options and engaging challenges that allow you to increase your income and motivate you to be even more active.

3. Genopets (GENE)

A combination of Tamagotchi and earning from movement. In Genopets, you nurture and evolve your digital pet (a Genopet), which grows thanks to your physical activity. Your steps are converted into energy that you can use to upgrade your creature or trade on the marketplace. It’s the perfect choice for those who are looking for gamification and collecting elements in addition to earning.

4. Step App (FITFI)

STEPN’s main competitor, which has focused on competition and community. Like the market leader, Step App requires you to own virtual sneakers (SNEAKs) to earn from movement. However, the app stands out with its strong emphasis on the social aspect and competition with other players, both locally and globally. This motivates users not only to move but also to interact and compete.

5. Walken (WLKN)

Cute characters and simple rules. In Walken, you collect steps that are converted into GEMS—energy for upgrading and battling your characters, called CAThletes. The more you walk, the stronger your competitor becomes. You then enter it into simple, automated duels against other players, and you receive WLKN tokens for winning. It’s a great mix of physical activity with elements of a strategy game.

6. DOOAR (DOOAR)

A new app from the creators of STEPN that acts like a digital treadmill on your phone, but available to everyone for free. Unlike STEPN, you don’t need to buy NFT sneakers to get started. The app focuses on basic activity tracking and rewarding it, aiming to onboard millions of new users into the ecosystem before offering them the more advanced features known from the flagship product.

7. PUML Better Health (PUML)

An app that takes a more holistic view of health. PUML rewards you not only for steps but also for other activities such as meditation, home workouts, or sleep. The platform hosts challenges sponsored by well-known brands where you can win additional rewards. It is an option for people who want to be rewarded for taking care of their overall physical and mental health.

8. dotmoovs (MOOV)

A sports arena in your pocket, powered by AI. In dotmoovs, you compete with other users from around the world in real sports disciplines, such as freestyle football or dancing. The app uses your phone’s camera and artificial intelligence to score your movements. You earn by challenging others and proving your skills.

9. Digital Fitness (DEFIT)

Your digital training partner that pays you for your effort. DEFIT is an app aimed at more committed fitness enthusiasts, allowing you to track and be rewarded for a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to swimming. The goal is to create a global sports community that motivates each other through competition and achieving health goals together.

10. Gritti (GRIT)

An app for true running enthusiasts. Gritti is an M2E platform created by runners for runners, with a strong emphasis on social aspects. Users can create running clubs, participate in group challenges, and share their achievements. The earning model is combined with motivation for regular training and building relationships with other community members.

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.

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