Now that we’re a full month into 2010, I wonder how many people have given up their New Year’s resolution to get healthy and fit. After seeing a story on television about an incentive-based weight loss Web site, I was curious to learn if they had discovered a new way to help people stay on track. Turns out, Healthywage.com helps people make healthy choices – and the best part is they reward those who succeed!

After analyzing each participant’s health history, goals and preferences, Healthywage.com designs a personalized health program that includes weight loss goals, nutritional information and guidelines, and overall wellness goals. There is no cost to participate at the basic level but those who want to enhance their motivation and super-size their reward can choose to invest $150 or $400. Those who reach their annual goal by following the proposed program and program rules receive up to $1,000 depending on their investment. How cool is that? 

From a marketing perspective, the new Web site’s late January launch is perfectly timed to capture the attention of those who have lost interest in their weight-loss resolution. Sometimes, timing (and now, reward) is everything. What a great way to get healthy and fit!

In 2009, the potential negative consequences of text messaging became a dominant hot topic in tech news.  From the dangers of texting while driving (or even walking!) to the serious implications facing teens who send explicit photos via cell phone, it might seem like this convenient method of communication has been causing more harm than good.

Thankfully, however, some have discovered ways to harness the positive power of the text message.  For example, researchers in New York have discovered that sending medication reminders via text message to young liver transplant patients can improve the rate of adherence thus reducing the chance of organ rejection.  Another study found that people were more likely to wear sunscreen if they received a daily text message reminding them to do so.  And public health programs in California are using text messages to educate teens and young adults about STDs and sexual health.  We’ve even recommended the use of texting to help our clients reach out to Gen Y moms-to-be.

As texting continues to grow in popularity (an estimated 4.1 BILLION text messages are sent/received EVERY DAY, double the number from 2008), I’m hopeful we’ll find more and more ways to use this simple, low-cost technology to encourage healthy habits.