Pedometers are those little digital gadgets that a lot of fitness enthusiasts wear on their waist. But, what exactly do they do and why are they used so prevalently amongst the fitness community?
First, and most basically, they count the number of steps you take in a day. Why does this matter? Research has shown that you’re healthiest when you take, on average, 10,000 steps or more in a 24 hour period. So, you need to know how close you are to that goal and a pedometer can help you do just that.
Second, most of them also show you the actual distance that you’ve walked. You set the pedometer up based upon your stride length which allows it to calculate your total distance travelled based on the number of steps you’ve taken. This is a great tool to use to figure out the length of a new trail or path.
Third, pedometers have a way of motivating you. When you look at that number on your waistline, it’s a continual reminder that you need to get moving so that you hit your target number of steps or distance. Otherwise, it’s pretty easy to just “forget” that you should be up and walking around at regular intervals throughout the day.
Fourth, they improve your weight loss results. No, it’s not that adding the weight of that tiny contraption is enough to get your metabolism going (although every little bit helps, right?). According to an analysis of several different walking programs which was published in the Annals of Family Medicine, they found that, “Pedometer-based walking programs result in a modest amount of weight loss.” So, add a pedometer to your belt and drop more weight.
Add a pedometer to your fitness “toolbox” and walk your way to better health. It’s as simple as that.
