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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 July 2025)

STEPN (GMT and GST)
Runs on the Solana blockchain. Users buy NFT sneakers and earn tokens by walking or running. As of July 2025, the app has over 5.7 million registered users. Seasonal challenges like “Ocean Marathon,” limited-edition “Sky Runners” skins, and a special NFT collection in partnership with Adidas have been introduced. Daily active users remain around 200,000.

MetaGym (MGNC)
Web3 fitness with NFT avatars. Workouts are personalized using biometric tracking. The “MetaCoach” module with an AI virtual trainer was launched, along with an NFT equipment marketplace where users can rent and trade fitness gear.

Sweatcoin (SWEAT)
An app that rewards users for walking. SWEAT tokens can be staked for bonuses and discounts through brand partnerships. A loyalty tier system and weekly NFT prize tournaments for top steppers have been added. Users can also redeem tokens for real-world products.

Step App (FITFI and KCAL)
Competitive metaverse experience where users build their own fitness teams. FITFI tokens are earned through activity and KCAL is used to upgrade NFT sneakers. Since June, regional leagues and weekly team tournaments with 50,000 FITFI prize pools have been active.

Calo (CALO)
Solo and group challenge modes promoting a healthy lifestyle. Features include NFT sneaker breeding with dynamic genetic traits and integration with Apple Health and Google Fit for accurate activity tracking.

OliveX (DOSE)
A metaverse fitness platform featuring Dustland Runner and Rider. DOSE tokens are earned through various physical activities and spent on upgrades and NFTs. July 2025 brought “Battle Run” – real-time PvP races – and the ongoing “FitFi Heroes” reward program.

Genopets (GENE)
Digital pets that grow and earn rewards based on your movement. The more you move, the faster your Genopet evolves and the more GENE you earn. The AI-based “Sky Islands” adventure mode and the Qubits:GENE staking and treasure hunting system have been added.

Dotmoovs (MOOV)
AI-powered competitions in dance, freestyle football, and acrobatics. MOOV tokens are used to buy virtual costumes and move animations. July 2025 saw the launch of AI 3.0 with advanced body tracking and global online championships with a 100,000 MOOV prize pool.

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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