The idea sprung up because I only actually go to the gym consistently when there's a real person who will judge me if I don't show up. Alone I'm basically a motivational poster that never moves.
So I made an app that forces me to have that person and makes skipping expensive.
It's basically loss aversion plus social pressure (which works way better than reminders for me) and I kept it super private: no tracking, no storing your selfies or videos, everything stays between you and your friend.
How it works:
- You and a friend agree on a weekly workout goal (3–6 sessions) and a stake amount ($25–$100)
- Share a unique code to connect the pact
- During the week, either of you can snap a gym selfie and send it through the app to the other person
- The other person confirms (simple yes/no) that the workout happened
- At the end of the week, if you didn't hit the agreed target you owe the stake (paid directly to your friend via Venmo/Cash App/whatever)
- Optional punishment: instead of paying, post an embarrassing video you both agreed on (stays local, never uploaded)
The app tracks the streak and weekly progress. It never touches money, never stores photos or videos, and has no logins or accounts.
Live on the App Store (iOS only): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/accountabilibuddy-no-excuses/i...
I realize making it was probably a waste of time but definitely was fun so no regrets. Also biggest bonus is I finally have something half-decent to share on HN!
On that note, if anyone actually tries it I'd love to hear what you think! Feedback, roast, improvements, all is welcomed!