Problems With Your Pedometer?
Here's How to Get One and Actually Use It
A pedometer is a great way to motive yourself into getting more exercise.
Often people get frustrated with pedometers. There many different types, and if they are not worn properly the pedometer will not count steps properly.
Tips on buying a pedometer
- Do not spend your money on all the bells and whistles. All you really need a pedometer that counts steps. 10,000 steps is equivalent to approximately five miles. That is all you need to know.
- The cheapest ones from stores like Wal-Mart or Target are just as good as any other. Also, if it breaks, it is easy to get a new one. It is a good idea to have an extra on hand in case yours breaks.
- Do not get a pedometer that shuts off when you are not walking. Most of these pedometers shut off fairly quickly, it takes a few steps for it to turn back on, and often shuts off when you are walking slowly. This pedometer will probably count fewer steps than you are actually taking. This can get very frustrating.
- For a list of recommended pedometers check out the pictures below. All the recommended pedometers below cost less than $15.
Tip: Pedometers make a great present. They are a good stocking stuffer for the kids.
Here are a few tips on where to wear your pedometer.
- The best pants to wear your pedometer on have an elastic waistband. With jeans and other pants, it will be harder to get an accurate step count.
- For women, the best place to wear the pedometer is on your bra, between the cups.
- Make a pedometer belt. Buy elastic that is one inch or wider from the sewing section of a craft store. To measure the belt, wrap it around you and tug it so it fits snugly at your waist. Sew the ends together. Clip the pedometer to the belt. Wear it under your clothing.
- If your underwear has a thick enough waistband, your pedometer could work well there.
- For men that have a shirt pocket, try putting the pedometer in there. Do not clip the pedometer to the pocket. Placing the pedometer in your pants pocket will probably only count the steps on one leg.
- To check your pedometer for accuracy, walk twenty steps and then check to your pedometer. If it says anywhere from nineteen to twenty one steps, it is counting fairly accurately. It is a good idea to do this several times to get a proper average.
- Be careful not to look at your pedometer many times a day. This will move the hinges and clips too much and they will wear out and break. If you really want to know how many steps you are taking all day try a talking pedometer. (Pictured below)
Tip: If your pedometer seems to not be counting correctly, make sure it is not tilted to side where it is clipped on.
Once you purchase and put on your pedometer, check out some tips on how to reach your walking and fitness goals with it.
The copyright of the article Problems With Your Pedometer? in Fitness is owned by Samantha Rufle. Permission to republish Problems With Your Pedometer? must be granted by the author in writing.
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