Pedometers: What To Look For

Types of pedometers

A pedometer can be worn all day or only when you are walking or running. Before accelerometer pedometers (which have one or more sensors that detect acceleration) emerged on the marketplace, spring-lever mechanisms were the best option for counting steps. Spring-lever pedometers are accurate, but they depend on a pronounced up-and-down motion to register a step. These pedometers and some accelerometer pedometers must be placed at the hip for optimal accuracy, and accelerometer pocket pedometers can be securely tucked into a pocket or bag. Spring-lever pedometers may not be accurate for overweight adults who cannot place it at the waist without it tilting forward, or those with a walking pace of less than 2.5 mph.

Although some pedometers only count steps, many models also calculate distance and/or calories burned. Distance is usually calculated by simply multiplying the number of steps by the length of your stride, and pedometers use your weight to calculate calories burned. Spring-lever pedometers don't know what type of physical activity you are engaged in, be it walking or running, going uphill or down. Therefore, spring-lever pedometers have a larger margin of error than accelerometer-based pedometers at calculating calories expended.

If you just want to know your step count, a basic, inexpensive pedometer may suit your needs. For serious walkers, some pedometers come with a USB connection that helps you track and analyze your progress on the computer. Finally, some walkers may appreciate a pedometer with a wrist monitor so you can easily keep tabs on your step count. These pedometers are more expensive, but they typically have more features. Regardless of what type of pedometer you choose, experts say to keep the following in mind: 

• Accuracy is most important. Choose a model or brand that gets good marks for accuracy. If you have a waist size of more than 40 inches, or if you prefer to walk slowly, an accelerometer pedometer may be your best bet.

• Look for an easy-to-read display. Ideally, the display area should be large, with oversized numbers that are easy to read. Many people prefer a display they can see without unclipping it from the waist.

• Pedometers with a clock may reset each day. Pedometers with this function reset step and calorie totals back to zero at midnight. This reset time of day can be changed.  

• A security strap prevents accidental lost or damage. Pedometers with a plastic clip may not keep a pedometer securely attached at the waist, particularly during jogging. A security strap will keep it from dropping to the ground and being lost or damaged in the event it becomes unclipped.

• A protective cover prevents accidental resetting of the device. Models without a cover over the buttons require you to press the reset button for several seconds. Still, if the pedometer is pressed against something, it is possible to accidentally reset the step count.

• Don't expect accuracy with distance and calorie calculations. There are so many variables involved in measuring distance and calories that the data given usually isn't accurate. For instance, situations like walking at an uneven pace in crowds, walking up a steep slope or standing and sitting can cause a miscount.

• Pedometers need batteries. Most come with internal batteries that need to be replaced from time to time. Accelerometer pedometers tend to need replacement batteries sooner than spring-levered pedometers.