Something you might not know about me is that I’m a geek. If you are a client or come to my classes you’ll know I’m an anatomy and physiology geek but I’m talking geekiness to the core.. I like tech, and play video games. I’m so geeky I played World of Warcraft before it was released as a closed Beta tester for about 18 months, then open Beta and played for a few years on release. So yes I’m playing Pokemon Go!
I’ve been playing Pokemon for 20 years. Yep OG Generation 1 Red & Blue player. Yes, I caught them all. I played through to Generation 4, then stopped at 5 and 6 as I took a break from gaming altogether (even WoW). I’ve even uploaded a video about it, so what made me play Pokemon Go?
- It’s on my iPhone
- I can play when walking Pixel
- I wanted to catch ’em all… again
- Nostalgia
- It’s free!
However the main reason I was eager to try it was to see if it lived up to the hype, people would have to leave their homes and get outside, and MOVE. So did it work? Yes!
5 Health Benefits of playing Pokemon Go
- You have to move. Technically you could put down a lure at a PokeStop then sit and wait for the Pokemon to come you you, BUT you encounter MORE Pokemon by moving! Moving more is a good thing! Whether that’s walking, running, cycling or skateboarding you have to get active! I’ve been playing 5 weeks. In that time I’ve walked 196km or 123 miles, that’s an average of 3.5 miles a day. I’m only playing when I walk Pixel too, I know some people are out A LOT playing the game!
- This game has bridged a gap for introverts (like me) and anyone with social anxiety of disorders. People talk to you, in public! Rather than walking past each other, you see someone with their phone out playing and you give them a smile. Sometimes I’ll tell people about a pokemon I just caught at a specific location, or they’ll ask me “which team are you on?”… it’s like playing an MMORPG but out in the real world! No headsets needed to communicate!
- I’ve also seen a ton of posts on social media about how the game has helped with depression, anxiety and agoraphobia. It’s giving people a reason to leave the house, even if just for a little while as it gives them something else to focus on, getting them outside of their own head and fears. It’s also being recommended for anyone with Autism.
- It appeals to ALL ages, I’ve seen young and old together catching Pokemon and battling gyms. I’ve seen families bonding over the game while they walk around together catching pokemon. Seriously, it’s been the best thing I’ve seen to bond parents and their children in decades!
- Dogs are loving it! Pixel gets to go to the park daily now. He gets to meet other people, kids and dogs. Plus I take him to different parks to encounter different Pokemon (this would probably be beneficial to kids too lol). One animal shelter advertised for people to come walk their adoptable dogs while playing Pokemon Go, and not only did the ad go viral, so far 150 people showed up to walk their shelter dogs!
I think Pokemon Go is a great thing for people, pets and the community and honestly I’m waiting for the first news story to feature a weight loss success crediting the game, because it will happen.
For someone like me, who is passionate about health and fitness, I’m just happy to see people enjoying themselves playing a game, without being stuck inside on the playstation drinking soda and eating chips. People are always going to play games but now we have interactive games like Pokemon Go to push us to NOT sit, to be active, to be social to give us a common bond that transcends age, sex, or race.
- Are you playing Pokemon Go?
- What level are you?
- Which is your favorite pokemon?
Di
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Teresa
I love how Pokemon Go is having a healthy effect on those who play it. I notice a lot more children in my area outside and interacting with other kids. Yes, they’re still playing a game, but hey it gets them outside! I also play, and love it.
Christina Shoemaker
I’ve never played Pokemon before so I find everyone’s current fascination so interesting! It definitely does keep people running around outside! Have fun!
HilLesha
I honestly never into Pokemon. However, I can understand why so many people are into the app since it sounds like a wonderful way to get moving.
Sona Sethi
Haha! I totally agree. Walking to catch pokemons is by the far the most attractive way to stay fit. 🙂
Renee @ The Good Hearted Woman
I thing the best thing I’ve seen so far about Pokemon Go is all the people I see out walking in the late afternoon/early evening in our neighborhood. I’ve lived here for years, and it’s the first time I’ve seen this many families out walking together. That’s got to be a good thing.
Amber Nelson
My kids love playing Pokemon Go and I can see how it would be good to get kids out and walking around.
jen
That picture with the dog completely wiped out because of that app is way too funny! I was laughing out loud. So crazy how this phenomenal app has overtaken the market!
Roxanne
I say to each their own on this one. If it’s your thing go for it. I hate all the posts on FB making fun of the PG crowd. There are certainly some benefits to getting out of the house and interacting!
Debra
We are playing, but in a sort of not stressful way. It is a fun thing to play together with our kids.
Kara
It’s so hot here we are that my boys haven’t been playing that much. When the weather cools down, I’m sure they will be out every afternoon after school!
Amanda
I am 38 years old and I do play Pokemon Go! It really is a lot of fun and we play it as a family. I am not sure what level I am on but I have caught a lot of those rat looking things!
Ashley
I had no idea it was helping people with depression and the like but it makes sense. I am playing, only level 10 but I’m just kind of playing casually. It keeps my kids outside longer and makes my errand running more interesting
Cynthia @craftoflaughter
I admit, I don’t understand the attraction but wont judge! I’m thrilled that people are actually going outside though!
Karen
haha – love your images/comics about Pokemon Go! You are right – it does have great benefits to movement and getting active and it is also fun in the process! Just gotta be careful and mindful while using the app! 🙂
Rebecca Bryant
Truth. My son takes like 5-5 walks a night looking for Pokemons. He lost over 60 pounds this last year just by walking adn another 10 since starting Pokemon.
Robin Masshole Mommy
No, I don’t play, but my 12 year old does. I don’t find that it makes him much more active than he normally would be, though. He catches in the car mostly while we are driving.