How to choose a pedometer. Top 10 best models

The emergence of the 10 thousand steps theory predetermined the popularity of applications that help users count how many steps they have walked in a day. There have been numerous studies showing that people who walk 10,000 steps a day are healthier, have lower cholesterol levels and are less prone to heart disease. However, followers of the theory often miss the fact that walking slowly will not do anything for your health. You need a quick step that significantly increases your heart rate. That's why it's best to only take the meter into account when you're walking or jogging.

Which pedometer is better to choose?

Pedometers are units for measuring the number of steps a person takes per day. They help athletes and those who closely monitor their health. The choice of a pedometer directly depends on the needs of the buyer.

First, let's look at the main types of such devices:

• Mechanical devices
  have a simple mechanism of action. Inside the pedometer there is a small weight with a spring. As you move, the pedometer moves a gear, which gradually moves the dial needle. On the dial itself, the user sees the number of steps taken. The units are rarely used by anyone and are rarely sold in electronics and household appliance stores.
• Electronic-mechanical
  units with a simple task - to transmit all vibrations of the user’s body to a special sensor. The sensor turns vibrations into pulses, which are displayed in digital values ​​on the built-in display. The most popular and inexpensive options.
• Electronic
  – count steps by performing complex mathematical calculations. The units are very common among athletes. They are expensive and are used for specific purposes. For example, they are often purchased to monitor health conditions. They can measure pulse, blood pressure, etc.

A pedometer is a progressive device, tiny and light weight. The device counts the number of steps. The pedometer is attached:

1. on the thigh
2. on the foot
3. on the wrist

The pedometer does not take up much space. Installation programs for pedometers are installed on a smartphone, and portable ones are your professional assistants in protecting your health. Simple pedometers only count steps. These are usually inexpensive devices that clip onto your belt. A wrist pedometer is worn on the wrist. It calculates the distance traveled and calories burned. It has a timer and stopwatch. It is quite suitable for those who play sports. Advanced models of pedometers are ergometers. In addition to steps, they count calories and store them in memory. Fashion models, this thing is for you! Pedometers with heart rate indicators will help prevent cardiovascular diseases. There are also pedometers that attach to sneakers. Such devices count steps in pairs because they are attached to one leg. They are equipped with a contact sensor. Portable pedometers are quite easy to use. The more functions, the higher the price of such a smart device. You choose the calculation of quantities yourself: kilocalories or kilometers. Every pedometer usually has a clock and a calendar. Some pedometers are battery-powered, some are battery-powered.

Advantages of portable pedometers:

• optimal cost,
• simplicity of the device,
• additional functions,
• ease of use compared to installation pedometers.

Information on the number of steps per day:

• Walk 10,000 steps a day and you will reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
• Walk 12,000 - 15,000 steps a day and you will lose excess weight.
• Walk 30,000 or more steps and you will become an athlete!

Basic and additional functions of a fitness bracelet

Pedometers for older people are produced in the form of trackers - devices that perform several tasks at once. They control walking by counting the oscillations of a built-in pendulum or sensor. In addition to the number of steps, such devices show physical activity, can measure blood pressure, pulse, and count calories burned. Additional functions include: smart alarm clock, reminder to drink water, sleep analysis.

Physical activity

• Gait analysis. The device shows step length, pace, distance in kilometers or miles.
• Activity statistics. The pedometer displays a movement graph for a week or month.
• Electronic trainer. When a pensioner sits for a long time, the device makes a sound or vibrates, stimulating activity.
• Selecting a workout. The fitness bracelet controls the intensity of the load and tells you when to reduce or increase it.

Number of calories burned

To count them correctly, the device must have its own good software, or it must be connected to a smartphone or computer. The number of calories burned while walking depends on the person’s build (weight, height) and the intensity of the workout. If the device does not use this data, but calculates energy consumption only based on the number of steps taken and walking speed, the resulting figure is far from the truth.

• Apricot pie with sour cream filling: baking recipes
• 5 Surprising Ways Stress Affects the Brain
• 9 Ways to Save a Breaking Marriage

Blood pressure and pulse measurement

A useful function for pensioners, especially those with problems with the cardiovascular system. The device reads data through a special sensor, which must be in contact with the skin of the wrist or ring finger. The accuracy of the indicators is not ideal, but it is enough to monitor the condition.

A fitness bracelet with blood pressure measurement is a rare and expensive device with an error rate of 15 to 50%. There is not much point in buying one; it is better to take a compact tonometer.

Which brand of pedometer is better to buy?

• Huawei is a Chinese company specializing in consumer devices, including activity trackers, fitness bracelets, and smart watches. The latter are intended mainly to be worn on the wrist, on which they are securely attached using a special belt. They are well protected from dust and water, which increases their service life. The products accurately measure not only the number of steps, but also the pulse. The company's devices are compatible with two operating systems: iOS and Android.
• Xiaomi is a Chinese manufacturer that began operating in 2010 under the leadership of its founder Lei Jun. It is one of the TOP 6 global companies in terms of smartphone production. The company also offers smart watches for adults and children with extensive capabilities: heart rate detection, sleep monitoring, calculating calories burned, etc. The products are made from high-quality, impact-resistant plastic that is safe for health.
• Sigma is a company that specializes in the development and sale of heart rate monitors and pedometers in the form of wristwatches. Its products are equipped with a fairly large, easy-to-read display with large numbers and a strap made of dense materials for comfortable fixation on the wrist. They operate on batteries for an average of 7 days without recharging. Their main advantages are a high level of moisture protection, allowing the devices to be immersed to a depth of up to 30 m, as well as the ability to measure both short and long steps, including the distance covered.
• TFA is a world leader in weather products. The product range of this German manufacturer also includes pedometers that help you lead an active lifestyle without harm to your health. Basically, these are inexpensive, but, according to reviews, good pedometers with a belt mount, for wearing in a pocket or on the wrist. They are easy to operate, show accurate data with an error of approximately 5%, and have a shock-resistant housing that increases the service life of the devices.
• Omron is a large Japanese manufacturer of electrical appliances, automation equipment and medical equipment, operating in this field since 1948. It is represented in more than 36 countries around the world and offers products at reasonable prices and acceptable quality. There are more than 10 models of pedometers available in the company's catalogs in white, blue, black, and yellow. The devices automatically turn off when there is no activity and count the number of steps, regardless of speed. They come with a 24 month warranty.
• Torneo – this brand produces sports equipment and accessories for training; it belongs to the Italian company Amberton Group. The company's products are popular due to their wide functionality, accuracy of indications, and ease of use. Basically, pedometers are built into fitness bracelets or sports watches that have a soft strap that does not rub the skin even when worn for a long time.
• Medisana is a manufacturer that produces products to improve health and well-being. It is developed by German engineers based on customer needs. It offers activity trackers that last at least 7 days on a single charge, store 15 measurements, and measure your sleep quality. The company's devices are controlled with just one button, have low power consumption and a coating that is resistant to abrasion and scratches.
• Solar Power – this brand offers pedometers both separately and built into smart watches. Their special feature is the ability to operate from a solar panel outdoors, which saves battery power. They are distinguished by their low weight and neat dimensions, clear menus and ease of control, wide functionality and stylish design.
• Life button - this brand sells smart watches for children and adults that combine a phone, a GPS tracker, and a camera. His gadgets are distinguished by their beautiful design, small size and light weight, and a simple and intuitive interface. They support various applications that make it easier to work with devices, and also have a parental control option.

Types of devices

With all the variety of heart rate (heart rate) and number of steps meters, devices are divided into different types according to the principle of operation.

Heart rate monitors

Devices that measure heart rate are:

• Chest.
  They show accurate results and are popular in athletics and fitness. They are equipped with electrodes and fixed on the chest. The information is transmitted to the receiver in the form of a watch or through a mobile application. After transmission, the received impulses are processed and the indicators are displayed on the screen.
• Carpals
  . The device is similar to a wristwatch and measures heart rate using two methods. The first method is to measure your pulse when your finger touches the sensor. You need to put the device on your hand, touch it, and see the heart rate information. The second method - the device measures heart rate by monitoring changes in blood flow. The bracelet is placed on the wrist, after which the skin is scanned by LED sensors, and an optical sensor detects vasoconstriction. The indicators are shown on the display.
• Fingertips.
  Heart rate is calculated by blood pulsation in the finger. Information with the heart rate value during physical activity is quickly displayed on the screen.

There are also headphones with a built-in heart rate sensor - wired and wireless. You can listen to music and, if desired, switch to the heart rate monitor. But the indicators are not perfectly accurate.

Pedometers

There are three types of meters:

• mechanical;
• electromechanical;
• electronic.

The latter are considered the most accurate and are suitable for those for whom it is important to control physical activity during the day.

Universal devices

These include smart watches with a heart rate monitor and pedometer and fitness bracelets equipped with such functions.

A pedometer tracker bracelet with a heart rate monitor is suitable for amateur athletes. It will not give reliable heart rate values, but it is compact and weighs little. More advanced bracelets are almost as multifunctional as watches with a heart rate monitor. They are capable of:

• adjust heart rate range;
• report a zone change with sound or vibration;
• calculate average and maximum heart rate;
• Count not only steps, but also the number of calories burned.

Some models are equipped with additional options

: navigator with GPS, alarm clock, workout memory. The disadvantage of such devices is that they need to be synchronized with a mobile device (Android or iOS).

The best pedometers on hand

These are the most common models on the market that are attached to the wrist. They more accurately determine the number of steps and distance traveled, but due to additional functions such as counting calories burned, they are many times more expensive.

Honor Band 3

This is not just a pedometer, but a full-fledged fitness tracker that measures heart rate, monitors sleep, and counts calories burned during training. It shows the distance traveled with almost zero error, being waterproof and calmly diving to a depth of up to 50 m. It allows it to be as accurate as possible by taking into account 10 types of physical activity and focusing on a specific exercise scenario. The product is placed on the wrist and sits securely on it due to the strong clasp, but does not put pressure on the skin. Honor Band 3 allows you to control your smartphone remotely - determine caller numbers, reject calls, receive messages in instant messengers and email, and play alarms.

Advantages

• Large white numbers
• Black background
• You can track your running routes using GPS on your mobile phone
• Work without recharging for at least 30 days
• Low power consumption
• Works with mobile devices on both Android and iOS

Flaws

• Compatible with smartphones based on Android OS version 4.4 or later

Xiaomi Mi Band 4

A wrist bracelet with a touch-sensitive color screen allows you to monitor the main physiological changes in the body. Weight 22.1 g. Charging time takes less than 2 hours and does not require recharging for another 20 days. In addition to the functions of a regular watch (stopwatch, timer, alarm), it monitors sleep phases, heartbeat, and pulse. These notifications will help you create a training regimen that will be more effective for the body (at its maximum working capacity). Displays a heart rate chart. The energy-saving function is enabled, the screen is clearly visible both in the dark and in bright sun. If the load exceeds the endurance standard, a notification will be sent. Walking results will be provided in a graph. You can track your step length, heart rate and pace. Inexpensive, perfect for buying for children.

Advantages

• Counts the distance and number of calories burned when cycling
• works without synchronizing with the phone
• you can control the music, which will make your walk even more fun, without much distraction

ZDK M3

It is a best-in-class fitness bracelet with a built-in heart rate monitor and pressure monitor. It has small dimensions and a nice appearance. Can measure calories, steps and acceleration. It has the functions of an alarm clock and sleep patterns analyzer. However, it is valued by users as the best heart rate monitor and blood pressure monitor in its class. In addition, it can remind the owner of the need to increase their activity.

Advantages

• low price
• increased functionality
• battery life

Flaws

• poorly coated with sealant
• weak alarm clock
• no instructions in Russian

GSMIN WR22

This is a pedometer bracelet with heart rate and blood pressure measurement that offers full functionality for monitoring physical activity and provides all smartphone alerts directly to your wrist. The display always shows a step counter, so keeping track of your steps will be easy and convenient. The tracker notifies that it is time to move if the user has been in a stationary or sitting position for a long time. Additionally, the WR22 provides sleep monitoring for an overall picture of your body's health. This will be very useful for those who move a lot or go jogging, because a good night's sleep is the key to vigor and strength during the day.

Advantages

• measures blood pressure and pulse
• Compatible with Android and iOS devices
• battery capacity 90 mAh
• high level of moisture protection: IP68

Flaws

• No

Barry Fit L010

The stylish, ergonomic tracker has a sleep monitoring function, supports entering goals, and the application stores all statistics for the past period. The pedometer goes well with any look and is suitable for both men and women.

Advantages

• Compatible with iPhone, iPad, Android
• A full charge lasts for 1.5 months
• Soft silicone bracelet adjustable to fit any wrist
• There is an alarm clock
• Displays the percentage of the total number of planned steps
• Counting calories burned

Flaws

• No heart rate monitor

Rating of the best pedometers

When choosing suitable products for rating the best pedometers, the accuracy of the readings first requires attention, and only then their functionality, versatility, ease of use, design, and affordability are taken into account.

When analyzing product characteristics, we looked at the following:

• Type – built-in or separate;
• Place of fastening or wearing - on the hand or belt, or in a pocket;
• Intended for adults or children;
• Dimensions and weight;
• Color;
• Manufacturing materials;
• Battery capacity and operating time without recharging;
• Waterproof and maximum immersion depth;
• Number and length of steps;
• Additional options - counting calories burned, displaying activity time, etc.;
• Compatible with various operating systems;
• Error in readings;
• Acceptable temperature range for operation.

The best massage hoops

The best pedometers for the belt

Such models are usually the cheapest, since most often they perform only one function, for example, measuring the number of steps; they do not even always determine the distance traveled in kilometers or miles.

Pedometer TFA Hitrax Walk

Pedometer is easy to set up and the LCD display is easy to read. If necessary, you can reset the settings and clear the memory with one click of the corresponding button. This is a separate pedometer, without additional functions, and is inexpensive. It is fixed on the belt using a special fastener, so the risk of loss is reduced to almost zero. The device works while the user moves, counting the steps taken. The product is automated and, in a state of physical calm, automatically turns off after exactly 2 minutes, which saves battery power.

Advantages

• Small sizes
• Powered by batteries
• Impact resistant plastic
• High quality build
• Ease of Management
• Convenient button placement on the front

Flaws

• Not very bright display

Omron HJ-005

The pedometer allows you to monitor data in the counting range from 0 to 99999 steps. The device has a sensitivity adjustment, with which you need to adjust it to your weight. The cover protects the device from moisture and accidental pressing of the button. A plus is the large LCD display, on which the numbers are clearly visible.

Advantages

• Cheap
• Accurate
• Easy to use
• Protective cover

Flaws

• Weak clip for fastening

Torneo A-946

The model is a round device with the simplest display. It operates with a battery that lasts for six months. The belt is attached with a special clip. The gadget counts the number of steps taken and the duration of physical activity.

Advantages

• attractive design
• convenient and high-quality fastening
• readability of information on the display

Flaws

• presence of extraneous noise during operation
• there is a slight error in operation

The best pedometer for a child

Special children's pedometers are almost never found on sale - they are usually included in the functionality of smart watches. Our rating includes just such a model, and only one – the one that combines practicality and broad capabilities.

No. 1. "Sport Life Button"

A relatively inexpensive model, designed for girls and boys. Counts steps depending on their length and the speed at which the user moves. In addition, the pedometer determines calorie consumption, distance covered and training time. The belt is wide and reliable.

"Sport Life Button"

The pedometer has a parental control function, and it also supports vibration, microphone, calls and other phone functions. Compatible with both Android and iOS. There is a touch screen, making operation easier.

pros

• excellent protection from moisture and dust;
• relatively good resolution – 240x240 px;
• soft belt made of rubber;
• beautiful appearance;
• connection to a smartphone via bluetooth.

Minuses

• rather weak camera;
• It is inconvenient to tuck the sleeve of a shirt or sweater over the device.

Prices for watches “Life Button Sport”

Sport life button

Video - Basic rules for choosing a sports bracelet

The best heart rate monitor with pedometer function

Beurer PM18

Made in Germany. Simplicity in appearance and the presence of a black and white screen creates an unattractive effect. Reports the recorded results of running and walking with sound notifications. Monitors cardiac activity, works on the ECG principle. Reads your pulse as you touch your finger. After entering the physiological data of a person, it easily monitors the normalization of the body’s load and prevents threshold phenomena. Has a calendar. Having an alarm clock helps you notify about the right time: finish your workout on time and not be late. Convenient to use in the dark thanks to the backlight.

Advantages

• trouble-free use in the pool
• provides information about the amount of fat burned
• works regardless of nearby devices

The best pedometers for shoes

Beurer Speed ​​Box II

The plastic bug is attached using special clips to the shoe lacing. It is controlled only by a smartphone with iOS and Android operating systems; it is impossible to obtain any information directly from it, because it does not even have a minimal display. Analyzes your walking speed and calculates the distance traveled throughout the day. To obtain more accurate readings, standard work with a heart rate monitor is required. All received information is transferred to the computer and, if desired, individual steps at a specific stage can be analyzed. Even if you move on an uneven surface with obstacles, where the steps will be of different nature, it receives accurate and reliable data on the speed and distance traveled, for example when walking in the mountains. The batteries last 200 hours, then they are simply replaced, no charging is provided. Manufactured using German technology, weighs 27 g.

Advantages

• waterproof

Polar Stride Sensor Bluetooth Smart

This device is positioned as a run sensor. It has options for measuring distance and measuring speed. It is aimed at athletes, professional and amateur. Its main advantage is that it is completely waterproof and conveniently attached to sneakers.

Advantages

• Bluetooth Smart communication interfaces
• iOS and Android Compatibility
• There is a “Running Index” function
• Suitable for training in any weather and any intensity

Flaws

• No display

Better universal pedometers

Devices of this type have various types of fastening, which makes them especially convenient.

Omron HJ-325

Quite a cheap pedometer considering its functionality. Manufactured by a reliable company known for its quality medical devices. Equipped with memory of measurements for the last 7 days.

Advantages

• Counts aerobic steps separately
• Comfortable
• There is a clock and a calorie counter
• Tracks activity levels over time
• Can be worn on a belt or on the wrist
• The charge lasts for more than six months

Flaws

• May not feel light, slow steps

SILVA EX Distance

Pocket pedometer measures distance and calories burned. There is a stopwatch function.

Advantages

• affordable price
• doesn't take up much space

Flaws

• not long battery life

BRADEX Marathon

A pedometer with a built-in calorie counter MARATHON will help you monitor your activity. It has a universal mount and a durable body. But still, a cheap device does not have high and guaranteed accuracy, like more expensive models.

Advantages

• Simple and convenient
• Has a calorie counter and clock
• Can be worn on the hand or on the belt

Flaws

• Sometimes time and other data get lost
• Large data error

The best pedometers for retirees

The TOP 5 includes, according to reviews, the most comfortable wrist and belt devices from the budget and mid-range (up to 4,000 rubles) price segments. To choose the right device, decide on the purpose of the device and the functions you intend to use. All models can be ordered online or purchased offline.

Barry Fit C120

A bright, inexpensive wrist pedometer with a black and white display, designed to be worn on the wrist. The set includes 2 silicone cases (pink, light green) and 2 straps of the same shades to choose from. The device is not afraid of falls and is protected from water, but you should not go into the shower with it. The screen is backlit, and the information on it is located in 2 rows: at the top is the number of steps, at the bottom is the time. The device is controlled using buttons located on the right and left.

In addition to the number of steps, the device estimates the walking distance and the amount of calories burned. It does this using a three-dimensional sensor. The built-in memory stores results for 30 days; if necessary, they can be transferred to a computer. The USB cable is included with a CR2025 battery, the charge of which lasts for 6-12 months.

Price

1145 rub.

Advantages:

• It’s convenient to read numbers from the large screen;
• buttons are pressed softly;
• many additional accessories included;
• You can hardly feel it on your hand (weight – 100 g).

Flaws:

• the shades are bright, not everyone likes them;
• The calorie counter works with large errors.

Smarterra Fitmaster Run

An inexpensive pedometer for pensioners in bracelet format on a black or white silicone strap, has a monochrome screen, runs on an LR44 battery. It lasts up to a year because the device consumes very little energy. The case is plastic, black, and together with the strap, it weighs only 25 g. According to reviews, the pedometer is not felt on the wrist even when worn for a long time.

The device measures the distance traveled and can work as a digital watch or stopwatch. Thanks to the high sensitivity of the sensor, the pedometer will detect even the quiet shuffling steps of a pensioner. The device is suitable for walking. Among the functions is calorie counting, but to get accurate data, you will have to connect the device to your smartphone and record your height and weight.

Price

490 rub.

Advantages:

• there are replaceable straps;
• accurately counts steps;
• does not require connection to a smartphone;
• has rich functionality.

Flaws:

• in bright sunshine, the numbers on the screen glare;
• The screen is small, not suitable for people with poor vision.
• The strap breaks quickly.

• Where can a pensioner work?
• Step-by-step gel nail extensions
• Russia launches contact tracing system for coronavirus carriers

Omron HJ-005

One of the most budget-friendly pedometers for pensioners with a rich set of functions. The device is worn on the belt; there is a strong, wide clip on the back for this purpose. The screen is rectangular, large, monochrome, holds 5 large numbers. Next to it is a mechanical data reset button. The plastic case with a protective cover is not afraid of moisture, but you should not drop it: it may not withstand the impact. The device is very light (24 g), compact: 63.5 * 36.3 mm.

The pedometer runs on an LR43 battery; it consumes little energy; the battery needs to be changed every 9-12 months. To ensure accurate readings, the device must be worn on your belt or on the edge of your top pocket: in a bag it will be less able to read movements. The instructions tell you how to adjust the device to your step and weight. After calibration, it is better not to touch the settings.

Price

1310 rub.

Advantages:

• not felt when moving;
• protected from accidental reset;
• only the necessary functions;
• it is easy for a pensioner to understand the settings without outside help;
• The sensor detects shuffling and slow walking.

Flaws:

• You need a screwdriver to change the battery.

Omron HJ-325

A good pedometer for retirees from a well-known company that produces medical products. The device is available for sale in pharmacies and digital equipment stores. The 3D sensor not only reads steps while walking, but also separates them by intensity. In the data you can separately see regular activity and aerobic (high load) activity. The device is produced in a plastic case, which has 3 colors: black, white, dark blue.

The screen is large and monochrome. There are 3 mechanical buttons underneath to manage data. You can wear the pedometer either on your hand (the strap is included), or in your pocket or on your neck - the accuracy of measurements does not suffer from this. The CR2032 battery in the device lasts for 3-5 months of continuous operation. The lid that closes it is securely locked with a lever.

Price

2990 rub.

Advantages:

• the sensor has high accuracy;
• the battery is easy to change;
• the numbers are large and easy to read;
• easy to configure;
• The case can withstand falls and shocks.

Flaws:

• slow walking counts with errors;
• activity mode must be turned on forcibly.

Beurer PM18

A heart rate monitor with a pedometer function from a German manufacturer can replace a classic watch: this makes the purchase affordable even for a pensioner. The body of the device is made of durable steel-colored plastic, the corners are protected by rubber pads that connect to the strap. The screen is black and white, at the bottom large numbers display the time in 24-hour format, at the top the date and day of the week are indicated in smaller numbers.

The device counts the number of steps and their magnitude, distance traveled, duration of activity (data is erased every day), current and average walking speed for the day. The device is perfect for training in the gym and outdoors: it is not afraid of high humidity, sweat, and has high sensitivity. To measure your pulse, you need to touch the sensor with your finger - there is no permanent reading of this indicator.

Price

4000 rub.

Advantages:

• there are many settings;
• when the buttons are pressed, a signal is triggered;
• the display is illuminated;
• the sensor reads even quiet steps;
• The training zone (pulse) is configured individually.

Flaws:

• Without help, it will be difficult for a pensioner to understand the device.