Pedometers are designed to estimate the distance you travel by counting steps.
Most pedometers are accurate for walking but lose accuracy for more intense activities
such as running. Pedometers cannot be used in biking because there is no impact between
the foot and the pedal. The pedometer works by feeling the impact of a footstrike and,
depending on the mechanism inside the pedometer, a step is recorded when a force is
applied at contact with the ground. When the force is registered in the pedometer,
it must have an accurate counter to register the step. In pedometers that measure
distance, the users must first enter an accurate stride length.
There are many pedometer models on the market. To assist you with your purchasing decision, consider the following:
| The pedometer is meant to be worn all day, every day, so look for some measure of durability and usability in the materials and design |
| Are the digits easy to read? |
| Buttons easy to operate? |
| Is there a strap or clip? |
| What kind of batteries does it take and is it easy to exchange the battery? |
| What is the battery life? |
| Is there a warranty on the pedometer? |
| How much do pedometers cost? |
| Well known brands have prices that range from $15 to $50 |
| You can buy a good pedometer for under $20 depending on the features |
| Expect to pay more as the features increase (calorie counter, etc) |
| Cheaper models tend to break easily |
| Pedometers can count: |
| Steps |
| Mileage distance by setting personalized stride length |
| Calories burned by setting weight |