How Does a Pedometer Work?

Getting knowledge of how a pedometer works starts with understanding the two parts of the word. “Ped” refers to the feet and to moving while “meter” refers to measuring. So we are trying to measure how far we are going while on our feet (as opposed to a thermometer, which measures temperature, or a speedometer, which measures speed).

Using a pedometer for your regular walking or running session is a great way to keep track of how far you go. Of course you could measure the distance from your back door to the park and back then walk or run that every day. But this would get to be a little boring after awhile. With a pedometer you can measure any distance almost anywhere.

Small, Handy

New designs of pedometers make them small and easy to work with. You simply strap it onto your ankle and go. There are a few reports that some models of pedometers aren’t accurate enough for the serious walker or runner. However, for most people these little items work rather well. If you believe that your pedometer is “off,” makes some measurements on your own and then adjust the pedometer results.

The general idea on pedometers is centuries old. Pedometers work by counting steps when a balance mechanism in the unit is moved or disturbed. New models have shake/movement prevention built in. If you want perfection, you may have to go to sometime of global-positioning system (GPS).

Pedometers get their information from the vibration of your feet hitting the ground or, in some cases, from the back-and-forth movement of your hips. That’s why some models record “steps” if you shake it or move it in a certain way. Some newer combination designs include mileage conversion, calorie counting etc.

The device has to be strapped onto the ankle, leg or hip in a straight-forward position so that it will gather information accurately. Some work very well when attached to your belt or waistband. Make sure the pedometer is secure so that there won’t be extra motion that causes the reading to be inaccurate. A few companies have come up with models that approach 100 percent accurate. None will work well if you simply place them in your pocket or in a fanny pack.

Mechanical models work with a small “arm” held by a spring. This tension allows slight movement of the arm and this is converted into the number of steps. Newer electronic models have sensors that count the times your foot hits the ground. The mechanical version might work best when attached to the hip or belt. But if you are a runner that doesn’t swing or move the hips very much when walking or running the mechanical pedometer might be inaccurate by 10 percent, 15 percent or more. You may have to try one of the higher-priced electronic models. These may be more sensitive but will have to be placed on the ankle or lower leg to accurately count the times your foot hits the pavement.