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Pedometer (pedometer) — a device for counting steps while running or walking. Allows you to know the distance traveled per day. Most devices record steps based on the person’s negative acceleration at the moment the foot contacts the ground. The pedometer helps to lead a healthier lifestyle (it is believed that a person should take 10,000 steps a day).
Pedometer-heart rate monitor — a device that has a pulse measurement function. A versatile but expensive solution. In terms of measurement accuracy, it is usually inferior to specialized devices.
Important: before choosing a pedometer, read the reviews on the model you like. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the device. Do not overpay for extra functionality that will never be in demand. But it is better not to save on the brand, since the quality of products of unknown brands is very low.
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Mechanical pedometer
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Electronic pedometer
Type
Mechanical — equipped with a weight on a spring, which swings like a pendulum. With each step taken, the weight moves the gear, which in turn shifts the dial hand by one division. Such pedometers are becoming less and less common, because they cannot boast of high measurement accuracy.
Electronic-mechanical — Equipped with a shake sensor and a pulse counter. One device reacts to the vibration of the body during movement and converts it into an electrical impulse, and the second one calculates this data and displays the results. Such a pedometer will cost relatively inexpensively with good accuracy and ease of use.
Electronic-mechanical pedometer distorts readings when worn in the hand or pocket.
Electronic — has an electromechanical sensor that converts body vibration into an electrical impulse. But unlike the previous version, measurements are performed on the basis of complex mathematical algorithms. This ensures maximum accuracy of the data displayed on the screen (extraneous movements, such as tilts, are not recorded).
The electronic pedometer does not change the measurement results when carried in the hand or pocket.
Counting Technology
2D — takes into account human movements in two planes — horizontal and vertical. To achieve accurate measurements, you must securely fasten the pedometer. A good choice for everyday use and walking, but it is better to train with a more advanced device.
Important: Pedometers with 2D technology record your steps while driving. Therefore, such a device should be turned off during the trip.
3D — takes into account human movements in three planes, which ensures greater accuracy of readings. The pedometer recognizes jumping, walking, running and distinguishes from them body vibrations that are not associated with steps. Such a device does not distort the data, which allows you to carry it in your pocket or bag. A versatile solution suitable for walking and training.
Fastening
On hand (bracelet) — fastened on the wrist, like a wrist watch. One of the most convenient options, taking into account all the movements of the user. The measurement accuracy is reduced due to the many vibrations that the hand transmits to the device. Therefore, for the device to work accurately, it is necessary to calibrate the accelerometer or use a GPS module, which increases the price of the device.
When choosing a pedometer, pay attention to the strap material, as the comfortable wearing of the gadget depends on it. It is better to stay on hypoallergenic leather and silicone. The latter option serves for a long time, perfectly stretches and is highly durable.
On the neck (ribbon, lace) — compares favorably with the previous version in that it allows you to free your hands. This method of fastening has become widespread.
On belt (clip) — for some, this solution is preferable, but in some cases, a pedometer with such a mount gives inaccurate data (for obese people).
On the shoulder — resembles a hand-held mount with the difference that such a solution does not take into account extraneous vibrations, which increases the accuracy of the data.
Carrying in a pocket or bag (pocket) – allows you to hide the device from prying eyes. This pedometer captures all movements of the body in space, including squats.
For shoes — takes into account only steps, and not any human movements. This mount comes in two versions.
- On the soles of shoes — It is fixed directly on the sole, which is inconvenient when moving. Such a device breaks down quickly, especially with intensive walking.
- On laces — devoid of the shortcomings of the previous method.
measurements
Number of steps — the main indicator that fixes the pedometer. Some devices give out general and average parameters for a certain time, remember the target value.
- Number of aerobic steps — taken at a speed of at least 60 steps per minute. This is the optimal speed for maintaining good physical shape.
Distance traveled – distance traveled by the user. Simple pedometers give out the distance traveled at a time, more expensive models can add up readings and process target values.
Ways to measure the distance traveled:
- regular pedometer – the number of steps is multiplied by the given value of the step length;
- model with GPS – takes into account information from satellites, which increases the accuracy of measurements. At the same time, such a pedometer is more expensive and often does not work well in places where there are problems with signal reception (premises, dense buildings).
Time — the time of the user’s general activity, but unlike the stopwatch, breaks in training are not taken into account. This allows you to control the duration and intensity of physical activity during classes.
Speed — the current speed of movement of a person. Measurements are performed by two methods (number of steps or information from the GPS module). Some pedometers give out a graph that shows the change in speed over a certain time.
Number of calories burned — energy consumption per workout. The pedometer determines this parameter approximately, based on the number of steps, the speed of movement and other data. However, this accuracy is sufficient in most cases.
Amount of fat burned — is determined on the basis of indirect information, like the previous indicator.
Pulse — Measures heart rate while moving. This parameter is important for any sports activity: burning fat or maintaining physical fitness corresponds to a certain heart rate. A similar function can signal a critical increase or decrease in heart rate, heart rhythm disturbance. It is found in pedometers with a heart rate monitor function.
Settings
Pol — serves to evaluate the data obtained, since some parameters of the male and female body differ with the same weight, height and age.
Age — the ability of the body to withstand high physical exertion depends on this parameter.
The weight — used to calculate the amount of fat burned and calorie consumption.
Growth — needed to determine the length of the step.
stride length — allows you to calculate the distance traveled.
Display
Monochrome — displays information using one primary color, which is enough for full-fledged work with a pedometer.
Color — displays data using several primary colors. Such a screen is clearer and more comfortable than a monochrome one, but it will cost more. Pedometers with a color screen are rare.
Some pedometers do not have a display. These devices are attached to the shoulder or shoes.
Food
Battery — saves money on the purchase of replacement batteries, has a high capacity, which is important when working with «gluttonous» functions, such as GPS. The battery is included with the device. At the same time, the battery cannot be quickly replaced, and charging itself takes a certain time. Such a solution is rare — in elite pedometers.
Battery – easy to purchase and replace, provides enough power for continuous use of a pedometer with a monochrome screen. This type of food is the most common. The standard size is CR2032 («tablet»).
Equipment
GPS module — determines the distance traveled and the speed of movement. Some devices with GPS are close to full-fledged navigators in their capabilities. This option increases power consumption. Therefore, GPS pedometers are equipped with capacious batteries, which increases their price and dimensions.
Barometer — measures atmospheric pressure. With this sensor, you can predict changes in weather conditions.
Altimeter (altimeter) — determines the height of a person above sea level.
Height measurement methods:
- model with GPS — indicates the height of the ground surface, excluding objects on which a person may be present, for example, stairs;
- pedometer with barometer — by the pressure difference determines the actual height of the place where the person is located. Sensitive to changing weather conditions, which reduces its accuracy.
Thermometer — measures air temperature. It is useful for the correct assessment of weather conditions, which is especially useful for long stays in nature.
Timer — counts down the time, and after it expires, it emits a signal. Suitable for a limited time workout.
Calendar — shows the current date.
Stopwatch — measures time intervals, which is useful when performing workouts.
Backlight the display – allows you to work with the screen even in the dark. To conserve battery power, the backlight turns on briefly. The backlight is activated by pressing a button. There are screens (OLED-matrices) in which the picture glows constantly.
Built-in memory – stores data (settings, training results). Typically, the memory stores information for 7 days. This feature helps you evaluate your progress over a training week.
Connecting to a smartphone / tablet — makes it possible to process the data received by the pedometer. Before connecting, make sure that the device is compatible with the smartphone / tablet operating system (Android, iOS).
Data is transmitted in several ways:
- Wi-Fi – a widely used wireless communication standard, but requires too much power;
- Bluetooth — less common, but outperforms Wi-Fi in efficiency;
- ANT+ – used in sports equipment, characterized by very low energy consumption.
PC connection (via USB cable) — makes it possible to save data to a PC, work with settings.
Pedometers are also equipped with a clock, calendar, compass, radio.
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