Carrot Fit App

Let’s face it: Reaching your goal weight means you’ve got to take an honest look at some of your less-than-healthful habits and crack down on them. But a new app might be taking that tough love thing a little too far: It’s called Carrot Fit, and like other fitness aids, this $1.99 app (available on iTunes) lets users set goals and keep track of their progress. Succeed and shed pounds, and the app will heap on praise and offer pointers to help you keep it up. But if you blow your goal, Carrot Fit will berate you. One example: "You're not going to get the butt you want by sitting on it.” Another snide comment: "Suck it up so one day you won't have to suck it in."

Users say that’s the appeal—that being called out and ridiculed helps motivate them to stick to their regimen. But critics think it’s sadistic and promotes a negative body image. “This is another example of body shaming, which is already too common and, sadly, not being addressed in a society obsessed with unrealistic body image,” the National Eating Disorders Association said in a statement. “People who are criticized for their size often engage in dangerous dieting behaviors that put them more at risk for disordered eating and, ultimately, eating disorders.”

What do you think: Can a fitness app with a snarky streak be helpful—or is it abusive and bound to backfire? Share your opinion in the comments.

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