The study found that all of the pedometers recorded too many steps at slower speeds, but improved when walking at faster speeds. The researchers used a treadmill and visually counted steps to compare what was recorded by the pedometers. They also placed pedometers on each hip and compared the totals between them to see how reliable they were in tracking the same motion by the same person.
Most Accurate Pedometers
These pedometers recorded steps with 99% accuracy:- Yamax Digi-Walker SW-200 - Review
- New Lifestyles 2000 - Review
- Walk4Life LS 2525 Review
- Omron Review
- Kenz Lifecorder
- Yamasa Skeletone
Less Accurate
- Sportline 330 (SL330) - Review
- Sportline 345 (SL345)
- Oregon Scientific Review
- Freestyle Pacer Pro Review
Accuracy for Distance
Six of the pedometers calculated distance, which most of them did with 90% accuracy at a moderate walking pace, but were less reliable with a slow walking pace of 2 miles per hour. Distance accuracy depends on taking the same step length each time, as well as being able to accurately measure that step length and input it into the pedometer. These variables make pedometers less reliable at estimating distance vs. counting steps.Accuracy for Calories
Pedometers use the walker's weight and the steps and distance to estimate calories burned. The researchers noted that it was unclear whether the pedometers were displaying net calories (the additional calories you burn by walking vs. what you would have burned sitting on the couch) or if they are displaying gross calories (not deducting the calories you would have burned just sitting around). If they display net calories, they are overestimating the amount significantly. If they are displaying gross calories they are still only accurate to 70% Think twice before deciding to treat yourself based on the numbers displayed.Most Accurate Pedometers for Counting Total Daily Steps
Step Counters - Daily Pedometer Walking Program
Sources:
Crouter, Schneider, Karabulut and Bassett, "Validity of 10 Electronic Pedometers for Measuring Steps, Distance, and Energy Cost." Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35 (10), 1779–1784. August, 2003.
Crouter, Schneider, Karabulut and Bassett, "Pedometer Measures of Free-Living Physical Activity: Comparison of 13 Models." Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 36(2):331-335, February 2004.
