How to Evaluate Pedometers & Acceleromters

Evaluate what you want to know. Are you interested in how many steps you take or do you want a precise account of the energy you're expending? Inexpensive pedometers tally the number of steps you take, but do not turn that number into a distance. You have to calculate your stride, and then multiply that by the total number of steps your pedometer recorded to calculate the distance you've traveled. If this is not something you want to do, invest in a more sophisticated pedometer or accelerometer, which will do this automatically.

Decide if you want any extras. More expensive pedometers can calculate heart rate and have a GPS to record exactly how far you've gone. Some also double as MP3 players or stopwatches. Basically, the more money you are willing to spend, the more gadgets you will get with your purchase. The good news is, if you are already in the market for an MP3 player, an expensive pedometer or accelerometer might be the most cost-effective purchase.

Think about durability. Many pedometers are used by walkers and therefore may not be tough enough to withstand the ups and downs of a lot of running. Accelerometers, on the other hand, are generally designed exclusively for runners and can withstand more rustle and tussle. Of course, if you pick the right kind of pedometer, running with it should be fine. Consult reviews and the product's website if you are unsure if the pedometer can really be accurate during some serious running workouts.

Consider your budget. For most people, this is what it will come down to. The more you are willing to spend, the more extras and accuracy you'll get. Accelerometers and expensive pedometers are generally more accurate and durable.

Consult consumer reviews. Company websites are great for getting specifications, but consumer reviews are the best place to learn what real people think about the product. Before buying, it's a good idea to make sure owners of the pedometer or accelerometer of your choice have been happy with their purchases. Many e-commerce stores have customer reviews on almost every product.