There are many devices that can help you estimate how active you are. Some devices measure your heart rate or the number of steps you take during physical activity. Others estimate the calories you’ve used. This information may be helpful or interesting to you as you strive to be active every day.
Want to give physical activity tracking a try? Look through the most common physical activity trackers (listed below) to find one that is right for you.
- Pedometer: Pedometers are generally about the size of a pager and can be clipped onto your belt or onto the waistband of your pants. All pedometers keep track of how many steps you take during the day, while some even track the distance you walk, or the number of calories you burn. Pedometers count your steps by counting every time that your hip moves up and down. The best place to wear your pedometer for the most accurate step count is on the waistband of your pants. Avoid putting your pedometer in your pocket because it will not count your steps accurately.
- Fitness band: This device can measure everything from the amount of activity you do to how much you sleep. There are many different varieties of fitness bands, but most are worn on the wrist, like a watch or bracelet. Fitness bands are typically more expensive than pedometers, since they provide a lot more information than a pedometer.
- Heart Rate Monitor: Heart rate monitors track your heart rate and let you know how hard you are working when you are being physically active. Trying to get your heart rate in a certain “zone” is another way to monitor your level of exertion.
- Cellphone apps: Many cellphones have apps that can be downloaded, either for free or for a fee, that track your physical activity. This can help to keep you accountable and motivated to be physically active.
Make your steps count each day by tracking them with a physical activity tracking device!
Did You Know?
It is suggested that you get 10,000 or more steps a day. That equals about five miles a day in total steps! If you struggle to get 10,000 steps a day, set a smaller goal to increase your current step level by 200 steps a day.
- Park your car farther away.
- Take the stairs more often.
- Take 15 minutes at lunch to walk
