A pedometer is a piece of equipment commonly used by walkers and joggers. A pedometer records each step you take and then converts it into the traveled distance. The motion sensor of the pedometer cannot accurately measure the distance you have traveled on your bicycle.
Function
When walking or jogging on a treadmill, you can easily keep track of the distance you traveled. The compact design of the pedometer allows you to monitor the distance of various outdoor activities, including nature hikes. If you would like to measure the distance of your cycling trek, you must purchase a separate device. The outdoor experts at REI state that speed and distance monitors will enable you to gauge the progress of your bicycle ride.
Features
Pedometers feature a motion sensitive device that tallies the number of footsteps. Certain pedometer models feature a pendulum design that clips around your waistband. More advanced pedometers can estimate the number of calories you have burned. Speed and distance monitors often feature an internal GPS system that keeps track of your progress. Less expensive models of the speed and distance monitor feature an accelerometer that gauges the speed of your bicycle tires.
Types
A popular type of pedometer resembles the conventional sports watch. These models often have a digital faceplate that displays your heart rate and number of calories burned. More advanced types of pedometers use a GPS system to more accurately gauge your walking distance. According to REI, the advanced types of speed and distance cycling models offer an optional foot pod. The foot pod will keep track of your cycling distance even while riding on a mountain biking trail that doesn't have a satellite signal.
Considerations
The motion sensor of the pedometer is designed to calculate the number of times your feet make contact with the ground. According to MayoClinic.com, some pedometers might pick up on other body movements that will result in an inaccurate reading. Wear the pedometer three days in a row to find the average number of steps you take while exercising. Cycling monitors allow you to hook the device to your computer to calculate your average speed and distance.
Benefits
The pedometer and the speed and distance monitor allow you to set goals for your fitness routine. Add a few steps or pedals to your workout each day to improve your fitness capabilities. Keeping track of the amount of calories you have burned will aid in your weight-loss process.
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