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Walking for fitness? Make it count with a pedometer
Counting your steps with a pedometer can motivate you to keep walking. Here's what to look for in a pedometer and how to set your walking goals.
By Mayo Clinic staffWalking paves the way to fitness. But are you taking enough steps? Use a pedometer to find out.
A pedometer is an inexpensive device that tallies your steps — whether you're fitness walking or simply going about your daily activities. A pedometer can be a powerful reminder that every step counts on the path toward better health.
Choosing a pedometer
Pedometers can be found online and at most retail and fitness stores. Prices vary, but basic models often cost less than $20. When choosing a pedometer, ask yourself these questions:
- Is it easy to use? All pedometers count steps. If that's all you need to know, a basic model might be fine. If you're curious about distance walked, calories burned or other measurements — or you want the ability to upload your walking data or electronically track the numbers — you might prefer a more advanced model.
- Is the display easy to read? Look for a display monitor you can read in different types of lighting, especially if you'll be walking both indoors and outdoors.
- Is it comfortable? Choose a lightweight model that fits on the type of clothing you usually wear.
- Is it sturdy? Look for a sturdy clip and a security strap to hold the pedometer in place.
Remember that a pedometer detects body motion to count your footsteps. Some pedometers may record other movements you make — not just walking — as steps taken. For the most accurate daily tally, you may need to turn your pedometer off when you're not walking.
Next page(1 of 2)
- Taking steps toward increased physical activity: Using pedometers to measure and motivate. President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. http://www.fitness.gov/pcpfsdigestjune2002.pdf. Accessed Nov. 17, 2008.
- Bravata DM, et al. Using pedometers to increase physical activity and improve health. Journal of the American Medical Association. 2007;298:2296.
- Eakin EG, et al. Correlates of pedometer use: Results from a community-based physical activity intervention trial (10,000 Steps Rockhampton). The International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. 2007;4:31.
- Pedometers: Walking by the numbers. ConsumerReports.org. http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/sports-exercise-equipment/pedometers-1004/overview. Accessed Nov. 11, 2008.
- Pedometer search results. Amazon.com. http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=pedometer. Accessed Nov. 11, 2008.
