How to Choose the Right Pedometer

If you’re going to undertake the 10,000 step program, you’ll only need two things: a good pair of walking shoes, and a pedometer. A pedometer measures your steps, so you can keep track of the number of steps you take in a day. To ensure you’re getting an accurate reading and getting the most out of your 10,000 step program, it’s vital to choose the right pedometer. Look for these things when you’re shopping for your pedometer:

Choose a pedometer that stays where you put it.
One thing that many people don’t realize is that you can’t simply put a pedometer in a pocket or in a purse; it must be clipped on your person, typically at the waist, in order to count your steps. Most pedometers come with a belt clip. Some pedometers come with a belt clip and a security strap – a useful feature so the pedometer doesn’t accidentally work its way off your belt and get lost while you’re walking. Look at different pedometer models and evaluate how likely it is to stay where you put it. Consider whether it will dig into your skin and make you uncomfortable, or whether it’s a small model that you’ll hardly notice.

Find an accurate pedometer.
Accuracy is a key feature when you’re using a pedometer for the 10,000 step program. Pedometers may vary in accuracy based on how hard you walk, your stride length and the quality of the pedometer itself. When you find a pedometer you like, take it for a test drive. Walk 100 steps, and check the pedometer reading. Is it close to 100, or does it say you’ve only taken 40 (or 150) steps? If it’s not accurate, it won’t do you any good in the 10,000 step program.

Look for a pedometer that’s easy to read.
Some pedometers may be difficult to read in extremely bright or extremely dark lighting, making it difficult to take readings while you’re outdoors. Other pedometers are small and may be difficult to read if you’ve got a visual impairment. Some pedometers include so many extra features that it’s impossible to find the number of steps. Look for a pedometer that’s easy for you to read. Look for a display that makes sense to you. If you can’t find the number of steps, it’s probably not the right pedometer for you.

Consider extra pedometer features.
Some pedometers include extra features, such as a stopwatch function, a clock function, a calorie counter or even a heart-rate monitor. Some models feature a memory function, so you can compare your readings with a prior day’s activities, while others are just plain step-counters. Think about how you want to use a pedometer, and what features are important to you. You may decide that you don’t need all the extra features and would be perfectly happy with an inexpensive pedometer, or you may decide that a calorie counter and a heart-rate monitor would help you make the most of your workouts. Think about how you want to use your pedometer, and consider extra features.