Pedometers are devices made to measure the steps you take. Most pedometers attach to your belt and they are about the size of a makeup compact. According to PBS.org, digital pedometers are made that can measure the distance you walk and the calories you burn walking. Pedometers can be a neat tool to use in a P.E. class, especially in the younger grades. By integrating pedometers into the class you can teach kids about fitness in a fun, hands-on way.
Step 1
Attach a pedometer to the children's belts in the physical education class. Make sure that kids understand how the pedometers work and explain to them the purpose so that they don't tamper with or remove the device.
Step 2
Wear the pedometers for a variety of activities like walking, running, jumping rope and playing games or sports. Record the differences in the number of steps and the distance walked with the varying exercises.
Step 3
Calculate the distances traveled during the various activities. The average steps needed to reach one mile for third through fifth graders is around 2,400 steps according to Walk For Life.com. Then with these distances you can calculate how many steps are needed to lose weight, and see what activity does this the best. The opportunities to use hands-on learning and conversions with math and science are endless.
Step 4
Set fitness goals to walk a certain number of steps in each class. By seeing their distance traveled, students get a better idea about exercise and understand the different types and levels of exercise. Nipissing University says that students can enhance their personal health and lifestyle behaviors by setting goals and monitoring daily activity.
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