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
Top Move-to-Earn Apps (as of March 2025)
1. STEPN (GMT & GST)
Built on the Solana blockchain. Users buy NFT sneakers and earn tokens for walking or running. New features include sneaker leveling and extra earning modes.
2. MetaGym (MGNC)
A Web3 fitness app with NFT avatars. Workouts like cardio and strength training earn MGNC tokens, which can be reinvested in avatars or rented out to other players.
3. Sweatcoin (SWEAT)
Rewards users for every step. SWEAT tokens can now be invested in crypto assets, opening new earning possibilities.
4. Step App (FITFI & KCAL)
Gamified fitness in the metaverse. Users earn tokens through activity and can upgrade their virtual gear to improve earnings.
5. Calo (CALO)
Offers both solo and group fitness challenges. A new feature allows users to breed NFT sneakers, creating additional income opportunities.
6. OliveX (DOSE)
A metaverse fitness platform where daily workouts earn DOSE tokens. These can be spent on NFTs, gameplay upgrades, or new fitness apps within the ecosystem.
7. Genopets (GENE)
Blends physical movement with caring for a digital pet. The more you move, the faster your Genopet evolves and earns GENE tokens.
8. Dotmoovs (MOOV)
Lets users compete in skills-based activities like dance or freestyle football. AI scores your performance, and MOOV tokens can be used to upgrade in-game items.
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.
