A pedometer is an electronic device that measures the number of steps you take during walking, jogging or running. It multiplies the number of steps and multiplies by the step length to get distance traveled. Motion causes sensors in the pedometer to trip a counter. The mechanism for this was actually invented by Thomas Jefferson in the 1800s. Although each model of pedometer will work slightly differently, certain things you must program into the device vary for each individual, such as step length, to get accurate readings.
Step 1
Study the manual for your particular pedometer. Each one will be a little different and it is important to know the specific instructions. For instance, you should know what buttons to press to enter the required information. Note what unit of measurement the pedometer is using or if you can set it to use a unit of your choosing.
Step 2
Determine the units of measurement on the pedometer. For example determine if you need inches or centimeters. Many pedometers can toggle between measurements. Some pedometers can factor in your weight to count calories, so determine if you need to know pounds or kilograms for this.
Step 3
Mark a starting line on the ground and stand with your toes touching it. Walk or, if you will be measuring running, run 10 steps. Mark the point of your toe at the end of your 10 steps. Measure the distance between the starting and end points and divide by 10 to get your step length. Program this into the pedometer.
Step 4
Divide the total distance between start and end points for your 10 steps by five to get your stride length. Program this into the pedometer if your particular model requires it.
Step 5
Weigh yourself and program your weight into the pedometer if necessary.
Step 6
Set any additional parameters on the pedometer such as time of day. Some pedometers measure the time of your activity like a stopwatch.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear your pedometer on one hip, not in the center of your body. You want to make sure that it detects a definite up and down motion for each step. Convert inches to centimeters by multiplying by 2.54. Convert pounds to kilograms by dividing the number of pounds by 2.2.
- Most pedometers are at least a little inaccurate. Any jarring motion may be counted as a step so keep this in mind when reading your results.
Things You'll Need
- Pedometer and manual
- Measuring tape
- Scales
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