A pedometer is a hand-held device that is designed to measure the number of steps you take. It is a useful tool for people with sedentary lifestyles that wish to lose weight and increase their activity level. With a pedometer, you can get an accurate gauge of many steps you take in an average day. Around 10,000 steps per day is a good goal to work toward for sedentary people, according to the National Institutes of Health. A pedometer is relatively easy to use.
Step 1
Buy a pedometer. They come in different styles, from simple to advanced. You can find a pedometer that will only count your steps, and you can find one that will calculate how many calories you've burned, how far you've walked and even keep a record of how many steps you've taken over a certain period of time.
Step 2
Test the accuracy of your pedometer. Enter the information to determine your stride length according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once it is set, walk around a high school track or somewhere else you know the distance a check to see if the pedometer is accurate. If it is not, adjust the settings.
Step 3
Set daily, weekly and monthly goals for the number of steps you want to take. Also mark down what intensity level those steps will be, and when they will be taken. Be as detailed as possible to help you stay on track. Start a journal or log to track your progress and enter your information at the end of each day. As long as you have the pedometer with you, there will always be some number to enter.
Step 4
Clip the pedometer on your belt or clothing and start walking. Try to think of it as a new accessory that must be with you at all times.
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