As mid- February 2025 rolls in, the initial wave of New Year’s resolutions is starting to settle. For some, the motivation is already waning, while for others, the commitment to getting fit is stronger than ever.
This year, one thing is clear: fitness in Kenya has taken on a new life, fueled by a trending app; Step Up.
The new year fitness surge
Every January, gyms fill up, running tracks get busier, and health-focused WhatsApp groups multiply as people vow to live healthier lives.
But by February, reality sets in, and many struggle to maintain the enthusiasm they had at the start of the year.
The gym memberships that seemed like a great investment in January start gathering dust, and the expensive workout gear finds its way to the back of the closet.
The excitement of meal prepping fades as cravings for nyama choma and fast food take over. It’s the annual cycle of fitness resolutions: strong starts and fizzling finishes.
However, 2025 is different. Instead of expensive gym memberships and strict diet plans, many Kenyans have turned to Step Up, a mobile app that makes fitness feel more like a game than a chore.
Step Up is a step-tracking app designed to encourage walking and movement through challenges, social competition, and real-world rewards. Users set daily step goals, compete with friends, and earn points for completing fitness challenges.
The app’s rise in popularity has been fueled by social media, with hashtags like #StepUpChallenge and #10kStepsADay trending across platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Many Kenyans are ditching short car and bodaboda rides in favor of walking to hit their daily step targets.
Why Step Up is a great substitute to other workout methods
1. Gamification: Step Up turns fitness into a game. Leaderboards, badges, and challenges make walking more engaging.
2. Social Motivation: Users can create step groups, compete against friends, and track each other’s progress.
3. Accessibility: Unlike traditional fitness programs that require equipment or a gym membership, Step Up only requires a smartphone.
4. Rewards:Some businesses have partnered with Step Up, offering discounts or freebies for users who hit certain step milestones.
5:Most importantly it’s free! Many kenyans struggle to keep up with fitness goals due to gym/diet prices and step up proves to be a great substitute and on the cheaper side. All you have to do is download the application.
The Impact on Kenyan Lifestyles
The rise of Step Up is transforming daily habits. More people are opting to walk instead of drive for short distances. Companies are even incorporating step challenges into their workplace wellness programs.
However, not everyone is thrilled. Some bodaboda riders have reported a slight drop in short-distance rides, as more people choose to walk instead.
On the flip side, local sportswear stores and fitness brands are seeing a surge in demand for walking shoes and smartwatches.
Will the Trend Last?
The big question now is whether Kenyans will keep up their walking habits as the months progress.
Experts say the app’s community-driven approach could be key to long-term success. Unlike traditional resolutions that rely on personal discipline, Step Up creates a shared experience, keeping users accountable.
As we move deeper into 2025, one thing is certain: fitness in Kenya is no longer just about hitting the gym—it’s about stepping up, one step at a time.
