How To Buy The Right Pedometer

Pedometers are a great tool to keep track of your individual fitness programs. In the past few years, pedometers have become much more accurate than previous models. They also offer much more unique features and tools than before. If you are looking to buy a pedometer, there will be a few decisions that you will need to make. Like a lot of purchases, the amount you will want to spend will have an impact on the price of your pedometer.

The very basic pedometers will offer simple mechanisms for the price you pay. At the very basic level, the Omron HJ-151 HIP Pedometer will offer great features for the base price of right around $15. The HJ-151 will measure your steps taken, time of workout, calories burned and distance traveled during workout. The model will also need to be placed horizontally to the ground to work adequately.

If you are willing to fork out a few more dollars for a better model, the Omron 720-ITC Pedometer is a step above the previous model. The HJ-720ITC can do all the HJ-151 can and more. The HJ-720ITC doesn't need to be placed perfectly horizontal to work properly. The reasoning for this is the number of axis inside the pedometer. This model has more than the previous one, so it can easily be attached to your belt, shoe or simply placed in your pocket or bag. This model also comes with a software program that contains an analysis of heart rate and blood pressure. The software will allow you to keep track of the analysis by a weekly, monthly or yearly recording. This model usually sells around the $25-$30 range.

If you are more serious about running or walking and you don't like the attaching of a pedometer to yourself, then buying a Tech4O watch may be your calling. The Tech4O watches offer great analysis and statistics of your workouts. The Traileader Tech4O watch is a very intelligent watch that can do much more than a normal pedometer. It can measure steps taken, time, calories burned, distance and lap times (which can be recorded). The Tech4O watch also includes a digital compass, barometer and altimeter. These features are great for the person who enjoys running around in the woods or desolate areas. You can also set up a full personal profile to your watch. The watch also has a ten day memory and full 1-year warranty. The Tech 4O watches do run in the range of $40-$200, but the Traileader model does have a cost around $125.

Another Tech4O watch model is the Speedometer and Heart Rate Monitor watch. This watch will come with a heart rate monitor that will strap around your chest and reads accurate measurements. This model isn't for everyone, but if you are interested in something that will give readings of your heart rate and speed, then this model is for you. This Tech 4O watch does retail around the $175 mark.

If you are the type to want the top of the line model, the Gruve Personal Activity will exceed all your needs. This pedometer is personalized and lab proven to systematically enable weight loss. All you have to do is strap on the very small Gruve monitor and it will do the rest. The pedometer / monitor will sync in to its online application and will measure your accomplishments the rest of the day. The online software will measure, analyze and breakdown your performances by steps taken, calories burned, track of movements, time, and will also reveal a workout plan. The Gruve doesn't need any help; it will notify you with a "buzz" if it stays stationary too long. When you have completed your workout and your goals have been attained, then the Gruve will turn to a green color indicating you have reached your goals for the day. The Gruve isn't your everyday pedometer. This pedometer usually sells near the $200 range.

Whether you are just a beginner and need to buy a pedometer to get your self motivated or you are an advanced runner and need all the detailed analysis you need, buying the right pedometer will help you with your goals. Be sure to determine what your needs are and then apply them to your purchase of a pedometer. Buying a $200 machine usually means that it will be used and not thrown in a drawer. Either way, a pedometer will be a great buy if it gives you the motivation to workout and help you reach those fitness goals.

Article was written by Patrick OShea. Looking to buy a Pedometer?