by Clarissa Hartley

Centuries ago, counting steps symbolized a mere leisure activity. Today, it’s transformed into a critical part of our fitness regime, thanks to the well-engineered pedometer we have at our disposal.

The pedometer, a rather intelligent device, senses bodily movement, calculating the number of steps undertaken. This smart device factors in all step-related activities, ranging from climbing stairs, running errands around the office to simple household chores. Pedometers are also conveniently designed to suit various usages – they can cinch to your waist, reside in pockets, dangle around your neck, or polish your wrist in the form of a sports watch.

Choosing Your Perfect Pedometer

The quest for the ideal pedometer frequently bumps into several questions, such as: What features should it possess? How accurate must its calculations be? Here are some key points to help streamline your choice.

Some pedometers are quite straightforward—they count steps once activated, reset the reading each morning, and the cycle repeats. However, the world of pedometers offers more sophisticated options like those monitoring walking time, estimating the distance covered, and computing calories burned. Such pedometers may need prior programming, requiring inputs like date, time, and weight, or your stride’s length.

A few, more advanced pedometers can transfer your daily activity data to your phone or personal computer, aiding in tracking personal progress. To ensure accuracy, prefer reputed brands and adhere strictly to the instruction manual. Although most pedometers are efficient in counting steps, accuracy tends to waver when calculating distance covered or calories burned if dealing with more rudimentary designs.

A practical tip: Choose a lightweight pedometer that not only fits well but is compatible with your daily attire. If you opt for a waistband model, ensure it is immune to clothing-interference. Consider models with display monitors adaptable to varying light conditions. If accuracy ranks high on your list, consider turning your smartphone into a pedometer using apps like iStep (for iPhone users) or Extra Pedometer (for Android users).

Keeping a Step Ahead: How to Use a Pedometer

After setting up your step counter, wear it constantly over three days to gauge your step-baseline. Record the total steps taken each day, divide the combined total by three, and voila, you’ve got your average! Now you have a stepping stone to build upon. With concrete knowledge of your average daily steps, you’re one step closer to setting and smashing those new targets.

If empirical data reveals an average of 5,000 steps a day, aim higher each day by incorporating extra walking stints in your routine. Skip the car ride to the store, disembark the bus a stop earlier, and embrace walking. Every extra step contributes! Burgeoning technology supports us in maintaining our health, the apt use of which can help us leap towards our wellness goals.

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