New Pokémon Go Game May Lead Players To Weight Loss

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – "Shoutout to everyone playing Pokemon GO whose FitBits have no clue what happened 5 days ago."

Tweeted by Pokémon's Go Twitter account @CatchEmAll, that may or may not be official, this quote embodies the health benefits related to a new game that has players all around the world up and moving.

The instant hit launched last week has gotten some bad press. Police officers say armed robbers used the game to find victims, and others say it has users trespassing. It even led to the discovery of a dead body.

But with those factors aside, it also has millennials moving around their neighborhoods in order to advance in the game.

Here's how it works.

The app uses the player's phone and GPS to simulate reality. Or in other words, the game is essentially a virtual map of where you actual are. You're supposed to catch Pokémon at different locations.

This pegs the question, how?

You have to physically walk to the area to catch the Pokémon that aren't actually physically there. Players are said to have walked over 24 miles in less than a week.

Players say driving is not allowed in the game, due to the 10 to 15 mph speed limit. It is also reported that in order for you to get anywhere in the game a player has to be committed to at least one to three miles.

And with 7.5 million downloads since its start this month, it could be assumed that the game has players glued to their screens for hours. And more playing time means more walking.

Here in Philadelphia a doctor at Einstein Medical Center is speaking up about the game's pros and cons.

On the bright side Dr. Bob Czincila says "being outside and active, walking, getting in your daily steps, with limited sunshine, sun screen and fresh air are all positives."

Players with a Fitbit or other tracking devices may have seen a change in the app's notifications. Unintentionally winning badges for the amount of steps taken is a good thing.

For many people, the main reason they avoid working out is a lack of motivation. The game seemingly retracts you from reality and gets you involved in a workout where you are in it to win it.

However users should also, "Be aware of your surroundings, pay attention to streets, intersections, traffic. Use caution around water and parks with elevated areas. Remember to stay hydrated if outside in the heat for long periods of time as well."

It's almost ironic how a device (your smartphone) that's linked to promoting laziness and disconnection from your surroundings is getting you out and keeping you active.

By Jasmine Payoute