Pedometers

This article abstract summarizes results of a clinical study conducted by the University of Tennessee in which 20 volunteers wore a control pedometer (the Yamax SW-200), and one of 12 other pedometers… simultaneously. According to the study, five models "significantly underestimated" steps, while three others "significantly overestimated" total steps. The Kenz Lifecorder, New-Lifestyles NL-2000 and Yamax Digi-Walker SW-701 are rated as most accurate.

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This study tests the accuracy of two Omron pedometers, the HJ-151 and HJ-720ITC. Nearly 50 adults test the pedometers at different positions during slow, moderate and very brisk walks. Both pedometers… perform well in the test, although the Omron HJ-720ITC did not perform as well when placed in a backpack. Overall, the researchers conclude that both pedometers are reliable, even for overweight adults.

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The Good Housekeeping Research Institute tests 10 pedometer models in a lab and uses 17 testers to evaluate them on a treadmill and during self-paced walk. Testing criteria include durability, accuracy,… ease of use and overall performance. Of the 10 pedometers tested, three models are picked as favorites: the Accusplit Eagle 190 Multi-Function, the Yamax CW-300 Digi-Walker and the Omron Pocket Pedometer HJ-720ITC. Unfortunately, the pedometers that didn't make the cut are not identified.

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Pedometers.com, which is run by an engineering firm that specializes in product testing, is a good source for balanced, brief reviews of pedometers. The firm rates each pedometer on accuracy, reliability,… mechanics, usability, size, battery life and durability; each pedometer also gets an overall rating. While some reviewers have a tendency to only focus on the positives, Pedometers.com pulls no punches in its reviews -- some pedometers receive a half star or less. The reviews aren't dated, and some of the models have been discontinued, so it's hard to know when this was last updated.

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WebMD's panel of "expert moms," including a nutritionist, wellness expert and fashion writer, put together a slide show of the best gifts for Mother's Day, including two pedometers (slides 10 and 11). The… Timex Ironman Fitness Tracker wins the top spot as best pedometer, although the pedometer wasn't tested. Still, WebMD's experts like the watch readings and the calibration that ensures accurate readings. The Omron Go Smart HJ-303 Tri Axis scores an honorable mention from the WebMD experts, but it is no longer manufactured by Omron.

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