Walking is a way to begin an exercise program, especially if you have been sedentary for a while. According to the Walking Site, a website devoted to all things walking-related, "a sedentary person may only average between 1,000 and 3,000 steps a day." Using a pedometer can help you get on track with an exercise program. Pedometers are inexpensive, easy to use and offer a range of useful features.
Inner Workings
Pedometers use mechanical sensors to monitor your body movements, registering foot strikes. Two types of pedometers are on the market: spring lever and strain gauge. A strain gauge measures strain placed on a piece of foil within the device, creating an electrical charge, which is measured and registers a foot strike. Technology used in a spring lever device counts individual steps with a swinging arm. When the arm swings back to its original position, it registers a step. If you are overweight or walk fast, a spring and lever pedometer will provide more accuracy. If you are slim or walk slowly, the accelerometers will be more accurate.
Omron Pocket Pedometer HJ-112N
The HJ-112 from Omron Health Care uses an accelerometer, or strain-gauge mechanism, to track steps, aerobic movement, calories and distance. One of the best features of the HJ-112 is it may be placed on the waist, lanyard, or pocket of the user, allowing some flexibility. The unit has a large display, adjustable stride length and a clock. The Omron Pocket Pedometer HJ-112 comes with a one-year warranty. The HJ-112 has a suggested retail price of $35 as of 2010.
Accusplit Eagle AE120 XL
The Eagle AE120 XL by Accusplit is a basic pedometer for those not interested in lots of features or expense. The unit uses a spring-lever mechanism to track steps. Weighing just 2 oz., the Eagle has a large display, and protective cover, making this is a good unit for seniors. Wearing the Eagle AE 120 XL in a vertical position on the user's waist produces results that are more accurate. The Eagle AE 120 XL has a suggested retail price of $17 for 2010.
Timex Ironman Triathlon Fitness Tracker T5K093
The Ironman Triathlon Fitness Tracker uses a spring lever mechanism to track steps, distance, miles and calories. Additional features include a light for night viewing, interval timing, and a stopwatch. The wrist monitor makes viewing information on the large watch face easy during exercise. The Ironman Fitness Tracker has a two-year battery life, and a one-year warranty. The suggested retail price for the Timex Ironman Triathlon Fitness Tracker T5K093 is $90 for 2010.
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