Using a pedometer, step counter, wearable device or fitness app on your phone is an easy and fun way to track how active you are. These tools add up all the steps you take during the day, which can be a great motivator to increase movement. A quick check may show that you need more steps for the day, inspiring an evening walk or quick trip up and back down the steps. Many of the fitness apps on the market have free versions, and offer helpful feedback, such as calories burned, which can help you manage your well-being and daily habits.
Getting the most out of your fitness tools
Follow these steps to get the best use out of your tracking devices:
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Make using your step counter a habit.
Put it on or activate it first thing in the morning as you get dressed. Leave it on until you go to bed. -
Find your activity level.
Go about your usual routine for the first week. Don't change how active you are yet.
Write down your steps each day in a step diary or let the device keep track for you. This will give you a starting record of how active you are. Look over this record for the week to see where you can add steps to your daily routine. -
Set goals.
Set a goal for the second week. At first, try to add 300 to 500 steps to your day. Then work toward 2,000 more steps a day. This adds about 1 mile, or 20 minutes of walking, to your routine. Continue to record your steps each day. -
Keep moving.
Check how well you did from week 1 to week 2. Set a new goal for the next week. Work your way up to walking the number of steps per day you set for your goal.
Copyrighted material adapted with permission from Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.
