Let’s face it folks… we live in an age of technology where our get up and go has got up and went. Schools are no longer teaching cursive writing but instead instituting computer classes. Children at a younger age are getting their first tablets or iPod touches. My grandson isn’t even two yet and already HE knows how to “swipe” on my phone when he’s looking at pictures! Whether right or wrong, many of us are drawn into a screen one way or another and no amount of “back in my day” speeches or “Go RVing” commercials are going to change that any time soon. So, you can drive yourself crazy trying to fight it, or find a way to go with it and make it work to your advantage. Arguably one of the bigger epidemics currently facing our society is lack of physical activity. The technology generation absolutely has contributed to this trend. Back in my day (yes… I totally did that on purpose), you used to have to walk or bike to a local arcade to get your video game fix… now, you can simply lean over and switch a machine on. So with so much entertainment a keyboard click away, what is there to motivate people get out and move?

Enter Pokemon Go.

Pokemon Go is a smart phone based app that uses GPS technology to help you track Pokemon while you’re out walking and “catch” them using your smartphone. No, you don’t throw your phone at it, but you do swipe on screen to throw a "Pokeball". From here, same as the original video game, you can train your Pokemon to become stronger and “evolve” and then enter it into gym battles. You use GPS to track gyms as well, as well as “Pokestops” where you can get supplies. The truly ingenious part of this, to me, is that you can also find “eggs” which are Pokemon not yet hatched yet. To hatch an egg, you have to walk 5 kilometers. For those who played the original game before, there’s no question as to why this is so popular. So popular, in fact, that even though it hasn’t been officially released in Canada yet (it’s expected to have its official release within the next couple of weeks), there are many who have found a work-around and already have it.

The Naysayers

I’ve read social media stories already talking against this app… “I sprained my ankle while playing Pokemon go”…. “I walked into a pole”….. “I tripped on a dog”… but what’s the other side of this story? This app has done with WiiFit and Xbox Kinect has fallen short on… it’s gotten a generation of gamers to get up and MOVE. All for free. Personally, I’ve witnessed this first-hand. I have two teenage boys and they’ve been out for a walk every day since they downloaded it. In my books, that’s a win.

Make it a Family Affair

So how do you capitalize on this? Well, I for one will be downloading this app when it is officially released in Canada. I think anything that turns physical activity into something fun is a bonus. If you’re an adult, it’s free so why not give it a try? If you’re looking for a way to motivate your kids, I think this does the trick, without question. Now, I’m not advocating going out and getting an iPhone for a 7 year old. Install the app on YOUR phone. Make it a family event. After supper, rather than flopping down in front of the TV or computer, head out on a Pokemon quest and catch ‘em all together. Not only will it be good for your physical health, the family time will do wonders for your mental health as well! Already on the “Go” bandwagon? We’d love to hear from you!

Source Url: http://gobelmont.ca/appy-friday-go/