A pedometer may be any device that counts the number of steps you take over a given distance. Fitness enthusiasts commonly use them to meet an exercise goal of walking a certain number of steps. Most pedometers can also measure distance when you calibrate it for your average stride length. You may then check the accuracy of your pedometer by testing it over a measured course.
Step 1
Wear your pedometer according to its instructions so that it properly counts your steps. Reset the pedometer and walk exactly one time around a standard 400m running track. Walk at your usual pace and remain in the same lane throughout the entire circuit around the track.
Step 2
Record the number of steps that you took to make one circuit around the track. Assume that you took 437 steps for this example.
Step 3
Establish the distance that you walked. The circumference of a standard running track is 400m only if you walk in lane one. Lane two has a circumference of 407m, lane three has a circumference of 413m and lane four has a circumference of 420m. Lane five has a circumference of 427m, lane six has a circumference of 434m, lane seven has a circumference of 440m and lane eight has a circumference of 447m. Assume that you walked in lane seven, giving you a distance of 440m.
Step 4
Calculate the average length of your stride in inches by multiplying the length of the course in meters by 39.37. Then divide the result by the number of steps you took. This example assumes you took 437 steps to cover a distance of 440m. The average length of your stride is therefore 440 x 39.37 / 437 = 39.6 inches.
Step 5
Calibrate your pedometer with your average stride length. Test the accuracy of your pedometer by walking a measured course of one mile. Your pedometer should show a result close to 5,280 feet.
Things You'll Need
- Pedometer
- Running track
