Walking for Fitness? Make it Count with a Pedometer

When the summer season comes to an end, it’s a good idea to find ways to keep active. Of course, the Fall season brings on a whole new set of household chores: window washing, raking leaves, and garden clean up. But if you are up to it, there’s nothing like a good walk to keep you well oiled and cardio fit. Just make sure your doctor agrees that a walking regimen is right for you.

 

(The Following information obtained from Mayo Clinic Website)

 

Counting your steps with a pedometer can motivate you to keep walking. Here’s what to look for in a pedometer and how to set your walking goals. Walking can help pave the way to fitness. But are you taking enough steps to get results?

 

Using a pedometer can help you set and achieve fitness goals. A pedometer can offer motivation and accountability. See how to choose and use a pedometer — it can be a powerful reminder that every step counts on the path toward better health.

 

A pedometer is a device that senses your movement to tally up the number of steps you take. A pedometer counts steps for any activity that involves step-like movement, including walking, running, stair climbing, cross-country skiing and even movement as you go about your daily chores.

 

To use a pedometer, you usually just clip it onto the waistband of your pants, tuck it inside your pocket or even slip it into a purse held close to your body — and then get moving.

 

But how do you know which kind of pedometer to get? Review these features to see what pedometer may best suit your needs and interests.

 

• Ease of use and extra features. Some pedometers have more features and require more setup than do others, and can provide lots of “bells and whistles” such as counting calories burned.

• Accuracy. Most pedometers are generally accurate and reliable at counting basic steps. It’s harder for pedometers to accurately measure actual distance you walk or run and harder still to estimate calories burned.

• Display. Look for a pedometer with a display monitor that you can read in different types of lighting, especially if you’ll be using it both indoors and outdoors

• Sturdiness. Look for a sturdy clip to secure the pedometer to your waistband. A pedometer may also have a strap to hold it in place and prevent it from being lost if it becomes unclipped.

• Price. The cost of a pedometer typically depends on how many features it offers. Pedometer price generally ranges from $10 to $50. You can buy a pedometer at fitness stores or online.

• Mobile devices. If you’re into gadgets and technology, you can use a pedometer application for your smart phone or other mobile device. These applications (or apps) can count steps, distance and calories, much like a traditional pedometer. Prices vary, with some basic apps being free.

 

A pedometer provides customized feedback about your activity level. It can serve as a strong motivator to keep moving. And it can help you track your progress over time.

 

Use these tips to make your pedometer a partner in your activity program. Remember to talk to your doctor before starting a new fitness. Whatever your fitness goals, take them one step at a time.