Card.io, founded by University of Kentucky graduate Destin George Bell, is changing the way people approach cardiovascular exercise by turning it into an interactive, team-based game.
The concept behind Card.io is simple yet engaging: users claim “turf” in their city as they walk, run, or bike through different areas. This gamification of outdoor cardio activities aims to make exercise more enjoyable and motivating for users of all fitness levels.
Bell, who moved to Austin after graduating in 2020, developed the idea for Card.io based on his own athletic experiences and the common challenges people face when trying to maintain a consistent fitness routine. The app allows users to join teams, compete in virtual events, and earn real-world rewards, creating a sense of community and friendly competition.
Since its inception, Card.io has gained traction in the fitness and tech industries. The company has secured partnerships with established organizations such as the Austin and Cleveland Marathons, as well as the Road Runners Club of America. Additionally, the app integrates with popular fitness platforms like Strava, Garmin, and Apple Health, making it easier for users to incorporate Card.io into their existing fitness tracking routines.
The startup has attracted attention from investors, raising nearly $1 million in funding from various sources, including the University of Kentucky and Niantic, the company behind Pokémon Go. This financial support has enabled Bell and his team to further develop and refine the app’s features.
Card.io’s leadership team includes co-founders Max Miranda as Chief Technology Officer and Nirav Patel, who served as Chief Product Officer during the app’s early development stages. The company has also assembled an impressive advisory board, featuring industry veterans like Kevin Callahan, founder of MapMyRun, and former executives from companies such as Adidas, Strava, and Zynga.
While Card.io is still in its early stages, it addresses a significant issue in public health. With a majority of Americans not meeting recommended daily cardio exercise guidelines, the app aims to provide a fun and engaging solution to motivate more people to get active.
As Card.io continues to evolve, it faces the challenge of standing out in a crowded fitness app market. However, its unique approach to gamifying cardio and fostering community engagement may give it an edge in attracting and retaining users looking for a fresh take on fitness tracking.
