In the same way that one adds money to a sweat jar when a curse word has been spoken, Lazy Jar is an app that has users pay for failing to meet their fitness goals.
The aim of the Fitbit-connected application is to help users build discipline, but do so in a way that is based on negative reinforcement than providing positive incentives. Lazy Jar has app users set a weekly goal, as well as a penalty for failing to fulfil that goal. To help users devote themselves fully to the cause, the app has users make a security deposit that will be refunded after a six-month commitment period.
As far as the money that goes to Lazy Jar from missed physical activity sessions, it donates 80% to charity and uses the rest for the upkeep of the app.
Penalizing Fitness Apps
The Fitbit-Connected 'Lazy Jar' Keeps Users Accountable on Fitness Goals
Trend Themes
1. Negative Reinforcement Fitness Apps - Creating fitness apps that penalize users for failing to meet their goals builds discipline using negative reinforcement.
2. Charitable Penalty Programs - Incorporating a charitable donation component into penalty programs provides a positive outcome from negative reinforcement.
3. Accountability Apps - Developing accountability apps that utilize security deposits and penalties can help users meet their goals.
Industry Implications
1. Fitness and Health - Creating negative reinforcement fitness apps could revolutionize the fitness industry and motivate users to meet their goals.
2. Charity and Non-profit - Incorporating penalty programs that donate a portion of the money to charity could benefit the non-profit industry by increasing donations.
3. Technology and App Development - Developing accountability apps that utilize security deposits and penalties could revolutionize the technology and app development industry.