Android App Aims to Make Users Lose Weight
Iconosys, a California-based application developer recently launched Steps to Lose Official Pedometer, an app aimed at helping to motivate smartphone users to exercise and stay in shape.
"Steps to Lose is aimed at encouraging walking jogging, running, and even dancing so as to help users maintain and improve their health, fitness and, more generally, to promote a 'keep moving to stay fit' lifestyle," said Iconosys in the press release.
The application helps users to track and log their steps, keeping a record of their progress supporting their exercising goals. It also runs continuously on smartphones keeping track of the amount of calories a user burns per day.
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The company recognizes that 50 percent of Americans are dangerously overweight and hopes to employ today's technology in order to help promote exercise and battle the obesity epidemic plaguing the U.S.
Iconosys also is concerned with the oversaturation of food-based television programs such as Man vs. Food, Diners, Drive-ins and Dives and Bizarre Foods that are constantly shown on networks such as The Travel Channel and The Food Network.
"While these programs provide great entertainment and have a cadre of loyal, enthusiastic followers, their message seems to be one of promoting themes of indulgence, hunger satisfaction, food flavor and overall enjoyment through eating," added Iconosys.
But these shows are not the only programming that affects the state of mind of many Americans in regards to their eating habits.
Other programs such as "The Biggest Loser" send a mixed message that exploits the condition of obesity for its comedic or entertainment value, according to the company.
"The fact that food and the love of food permeates the fabric of our society … it seems to be all around us, everywhere you look on TV and cable in advertisements," said Wayne Irving, co-founder of Iconosys.
"And while I think we should try to live life to the fullest, we have to realize that we are adults, and have choices about what we eat and how we treat our bodies," he added.
Steps to Lose Official Pedometer is currently available in the Google Play store (Android Market), Amazon Marketplace and on the Barnes and Noble Nook for free or a 99-cent donation to charities supported by Iconosys.
