Guys, stop.

Unless you've been living under a rock, you have more than likely noted the trend that is Pokemon Go. Upon its introduction to the US just a few weeks ago, many have been catching countless Pokemon and flocking to nearby "Pokestops" in efforts to "be the very best like no one ever was." (See what I did there?)

I am just as much of a Pokemon trainer as the next person. While I might find it a bit more difficult to keep up with the younger, jobless kids, I love how the game is reminiscent of my own childhood. I have done my fair share in catching pokemon, hatching eggs, and even declaring my loyalties to my team (Team Valor, always). I enjoy getting out with friends that partake in the wave of nostalgia each time they open the app. I am hopeful in the community the game is building and the idea that the game might be promoting a deviation from the stereotype that the upcoming generation will be entirely attached to technology with few in-person relationships.

But what is seemingly frustrating for me is the idea that Pokemon Go is going to be the revolutionary "get-fit-quick" resource. I have overheard numerous conversations on how the app will be the stepping stone for an entirely different way of life. And while some of that may be true, I remain skeptical.

I am skeptical because I am not entirely convinced people have thought this through. I believe that there are people that wish to use the game as a method of promoting exercise. I'm all for it. But I do also wish to point out some concerns:

1. This might be a fad

While I, as much as the next person, fully enjoy the game and try to find extra time in my week to get out and play, I have an uncomfortable feeling that the appeal of the game will wear off entirely. I have already found this to be the case. What used to be a busy Pokemon stop near my house just a few weeks ago, is now reduced down to the "truly committed." Of course, there might always be people that continue to play, but it is also important to be mindful of the fact that in order to have true fitness results, a long-term routine needs to be made. If you walk around for just a few weeks, you're not going to see results.

2. You have to pair exercise with good nutrition

In order to be healthy overall, it has been proven that a good diet must be paired with consistent exercise. If one is missing, one may still have problems "getting in shape" or feeling better overall. And perhaps some might be already doing this. But when I am in conversation with most people, I find that people often neglect this fact. If you want to see fitness results, even with walking long distances, you should make sure that you're getting all of the nutrients you need. (Note to self: Remember this fact when I pull into the McDonald's Drive-thru later.)

3. The game promotes walking and stopping

Many take heart in the idea that "they played Pokemon Go for two hours today" and they spent the entirety of that time in motion. But in reality, only part of this time may have been spent walking. Next time you play, be aware of how many times you stop to catch a pokemon, evolve and Eevee, or conquer a gym. How long were you there? Did you keep walking while doing this? How much time did you really spend walking?

4. People have already found shortcuts and ways to "beat the system"

Driving under 20 miles per hour helps hatch eggs quicker. Placing your phone on a record player also helps. There are numerous ways people are already trying to beat the system. So if you're trying to use Pokemon as a means of getting a little bit more exercise, make sure to skip these steps.

5. There is no "plan"

When it comes to exercise, especially coming from the supreme ruler of "couch potatoes," I have found that in order for me to remain consistent with exercise is to formulate a plan, or a schedule. When the game is new and exciting this isn't necessary. But as our lives carry on, or the weather gets hotter, or we just feel too tired, we have no reason not to skip a "workout." When this happens, or even when we fail to note the tendencies of our game playing as stated above, we miss out on the idea that the game can be revolutionary in terms of incorporating video games with physical exercise. We claim the potential for benefits without fully understanding that there is a bit of effort involved with all exercise.

Please do not misunderstand, I love the concept of integrating incentive for exercise. Lord knows I need plenty of incentive. But what is disheartening for me is the idea that so many may have real hopes of the game having a positive impact on their health without fully considering the implications of the process. If we wish to use Pokemon Go as a platform for feeling healthier and more active, I truly believe that these considerations must be made. Otherwise, Pokemon Go might not make you fit. But if trainers, and even other tech-users are aware of the ways technology can be effectively utilized, perhaps we can see more ways in which this technology can be incentivized as encouragement for us to do the things we fail to do daily.

Also, Team Valor will reign supreme.