Digital Pedometer (Step Counter)

In recent years, the pedometer has become the latest exercise gadget to have for altheles, trainers and health conscious individuals who want to track the numbers of steps they walk and run.

The pedometer, also known as a step counter, uses motion sensors to detect body movement and clocks each step one walk or run. It can be worn at home, at work or anywhere that you go on foot and this allow exercisers to keep track of how far they are going each day so that they know when or where they are deficient in their workouts. Counting steps also allows walkers to see how far they walk each day, and can really aid in weight loss.

Quick Links to the Best-Selling Pedometers Reviews 

01. Omron HJ-112 02. Omron HJ-720ITC 03. Omron HJ-303 04. Omron HJ-203 05. Omron HJ-151

What To Look For In A Pedometer

While all pedometers count steps, advancement in technology has allowed newer models to do more than step counting. Nowadays, many digital models are multi-functional that can measure distance, count calories and store memory to help you review your activity level and monitor your exercise progress.

However, regardless of the functions, experts recommed a consumer should always look out for these features when deciding on a pedometer:

• Accuracy - A pedometer's accuracy is the most important. Any model that can count steps to a precision of within +/- 5% is considered to be highly "accurate".
• Readability - The unit should preferably have a large display monitor so one can read it easily in different lighting condition, whether indoors or outdoors.
• Ease of use - A good pedometer should be comfortable to wear and easy to use, plus it must be able to count steps in different axis position so it will not affected the steps recorded.

How To Choose A Pedometer For Walking or Running

If you are who just want to get a sense of your walking and daily activity level, a basic model with standard "step and distance" counters will suffice. Many experts highly recommend the Omron HJ-112 Digital Pocket Pedometer base on its excellent rating for accuracy at fast and slow walking speeds.

However, for individuals who want to track the distance and time they jog or run, traditional "step and distance" hip and pocket counter will not be sufficient as it will not be able to count the steps accurately.

For those into running or cross country training, look for a "speed and distance" wrist watch monitor for easy tracking such as the Garmin Forerunner 305 with GPS or the Casio SGW200-1VCF Pedometer Watch.

How To Use A Pedometer Correctly

Using A Pedometer For Health and Weight Loss

Research has shown that people who uses pedometers are much more motivated to exercise regularly. As you check your count, the pedometer that tracks your steps will provide an instant feedback on your activity level, giving you the added motivation and reinforcement to add extra steps to your day.

Many health and fitness experts are encouraging people to walk 10,000 steps a day, which is considered by some to be the benchmark for an active lifestyle. 10,000 steps is equivalent to 5 miles (or 8 km) of walking exercise.

In a Harvard study, it was revealed that those who walk at least 6,000 steps or more per day can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and prolong's one life.

Best of all, walking 10,000 steps will help burn about 2000 to 3500 calories a week, which will not only improve one’s overall health but will also:

• elevates one's mood and physical well-being
• decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease
• reduce anxiety and depression
• reduce body fat, lose weight and increase fitness levels
• slows the aging process and prolongs life
• promote healthy bones and reduce the chance of osteoporosis

So what are you waiting for? Put on those walking shoes, slip on a pedometer and start walking!

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