Pedometers measure how many strides you take throughout the day, but most pedometers can measure more than just the number of steps you take. They’ll also calculate calories burned, if you input your weight, and can tell you how far your steps have taken you--but only if you calculate, then input, your stride length first.
Setting fitness goals according to steps taken may seem less daunting than setting fitness goals by distance, with 10,000 steps per day as one of the most popular, well-publicized goals.
Step 1
Position yourself in an open, flat area where you have enough room to take 10 normal steps straight ahead. Place a 12-inch or longer piece of masking tape on the floor or ground, just in front of your toes.
Step 2
Take a total of 10 steps forward, 5 steps with each foot, using your natural stride. Finish the last step with your feet together.
Step 3
Place another piece of tape on the floor or ground, just in front of your toes.
Step 4
Measure the distance between the two pieces of tape, then divide that distance by 10 to get your stride length. So if the two pieces of tape are 300 inches apart, your stride length is 300 / 10 = 30 inches.
Tips and Warnings
- Some pedometers can count steps taken accurately when placed in a shirt pocket, or handbag, but most pedometers are designed to be worn on your belt or at your waist, in order to more accurately measure the back-and-forth motion of your hips as you walk.
Things You'll Need
- Two 12-inch pieces of masking tape
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