This video (above) of a man doing squats to earn a ticket on the Moscow metro rail is the fitness motivation you need today.
Filmed at the Russian capital’s Vystavochaya Station, the video isn’t a hoax or a sadistic school-era punishment given to the squat-star on camera – completing 30 squats can really earn passengers a metro ticket and much self-satisfaction.
Installed in 2013 as part of a government health initiative, the squats-for-ticket machine can be found in only one metro station in the city and requires that the passenger complete a set of 30 squats within two minutes. The machine reportedly has a sensor and counts down the participant’s 30 squats. Failing the two-minute time out, however, the unfortunate soul will have to shell out 30 rubles, or a little less than a dollar, for a ticket.
According to online reports, the initiative was thought of as a kicker for the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics which, officials felt, would be a good time to promote good health.
Inspired by Moscow, Mexico city had also started a similar programme for their subway tickets in 2013. Mexicans, however, were considerably luckier – for them, a single ticket costs only 10 squats!
You’ve read Scroll.
Now help sustain it
Scroll is funded by readers, not corporate owners. If you believe our work matters, support our newsroom. Become a member today!
We’re not driven by clicks or corporate interests – just honest, independent reporting. Keep us going. Support Scroll today!