How does a pedometer help people reach their fitness goals?

Pedometers can help you reach your fitness goals in different ways. For starters, they can help you understand how much you’re already exercising on a day-to-day basis. “Many people are surprised to find out that they don't move as much as they thought,” Daniel Sullivan, CPT , a Dallas-based personal trainer, says. “Wearing a pedometer will help you become more aware of how you move throughout the day, and to work toward moving more.” Once you understand how much you’re currently exercising, you can create fitness goals for the future—and you can use your pedometer to track your progress. “Holding yourself accountable is absolutely critical to your success,” Sullivan says. “Pedometers will not only help keep you on track, but they will also encourage you to build other healthy habits, like trying new workouts, as your fitness level increases.”

What does a pedometer measure?

In its most basic form, a pedometer measures the number of steps you take while wearing it. But they often measure how far you’ve walked and how much time you’ve spent walking, too. If you’re willing to invest in a higher-tech option, you can often track other forms of exercise, such as cycling and swimming, as well as more advanced metrics. “Data gained from fitness trackers including resting heart rate, sleep, [heart rate variability], pace, and daily steps can be used to see how the body is responding to training,” Roche says. “These devices are often great for encouraging needed rest and recovery days to allow the body to adapt and build back stronger.”

How much does a pedometer cost?

Generally, you can expect to pay $15-$200 for a quality pedometer. Cheaper options may not track enough stats to help you reach your fitness goal, and they may also be less accurate. More expensive options may come with too many additional features and can be confusing to use. The cheapest option on our list, Broadsheet's Pedometer, is often available for $14, while our top recommendation, Fitbit's Versa 3, was $162 when we published this list.

How does a pedometer track steps?

Pedometers typically track steps by picking up on the way you move when you walk. Your hips may move up or down—or your body may sway from side to side. Many pedometers use these motions to determine how many steps you’ve taken.

Can a pedometer be used for bike riding?

Basic pedometers are designed to track steps, so they may not be able to track your cycling workouts effectively. That said, there are plenty of fitness trackers out there that are capable of tracking both walking and cycling workouts in great detail.

The Best Pedometers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed by an Expert

Walking is a great, low-impact way to get your body moving. But if you’re ready to level up your laps around the neighborhood, then it might be time to invest in a pedometer. Pedometers can help you track your daily steps, distance traveled, sleep quality, calories burned, and heart rate. “If you like a pedometer enough to wear it all the time, you'll get all the data it provides without having to remember to put it on before exercise or other activity," Jim Karas, founder of Intelligent Fitness and Wellness, says.

Tested & Approved

Our top pick, Fitbit’s Versa 3, is comfortable, user-friendly, and accurately tracks steps and other fitness data. We like that it goes beyond step count to track other workouts, like bike rides and swims. We also recommend 3DFitBud’s Simple Step Counter because it’s budget-friendly, with a long battery life and an extra-large display that’s easy to read.

Pedometers come in a range of types and styles, from simple step counters to high-tech smartwatches. Their price points vary, so it’s important to find a pedometer that’s worth its cost, tracks steps accurately, and has a decent battery life.

After researching dozens of pedometers from the top trusted brands, we narrowed the options down to ten popular models. For four weeks, we tested the devices by wearing them while exercising and during our day-to-day activities. Then, we evaluated each pedometer based on its ease of setup, comfort, ease of use, features, battery life, accuracy, appearance, and value. Here's how each step counter stacks up:

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Fitbit Versa 3 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best No-Frills:

3DActive 3DFitBud Simple Step Counter 3D Pedometer at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

iGANK Simple Walking Pedometer at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Running:

Garmin Forerunner 55 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Walks:

Realalt 3DTriSport Walking 3D Pedometer at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Battery Life:

Garmin Vivofit 4 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Accuracy:

Fitbit Inspire 2 Fitness Tracker at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Discreet:

Garmin Vivosmart 4 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Large Display:

Broadsheet Pedometer at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Hiking:

Polar Ignite Advanced Waterproof Fitness Watch at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.8

Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

4/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Accuracy

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Versatile
User-friendly
Good battery life

Cons

No music storage
Expensive

If you want a device that'll accurately measure your steps and distance, monitor your heart rate, and track calories burned (plus a whole lot of other health data), Fitbit’s Versa 3 is our top choice. During our test, we were impressed with its design, fit, and performance, and found it to be suitable for exercisers of all levels.

Initially, our tester thought the wristband and display was a bit larger than some of the other wristband-style pedometers we tested. But it didn’t feel bulky or heavy during regular use. In fact, the sleek design and smooth, comfortable band helped to earn the device a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort.

Our tester liked that it uses GPS to track distance, so there’s no need to bring along a phone on runs, walks, or rides. And once you’re done with your miles, you can view a workout intensity map on the Fitbit app to see how you did.

The Versa 3’s widgets are very intuitive and simple to navigate, and the settings are easy to change right on the display. We also like that the watch gives regular reminders to move or drink water. Considering how much functionality this pedometer offers, we were also impressed with its battery life and short charging time—it was ready to wear in just 12 minutes.

Testing Notes: “I like that the Fitbit Versa 3 is very user-friendly and versatile. It’s not complicated to set up and is also very easy to navigate. Whether I’m in the mood to just get some basic information, like step count, or dig deeper and analyze sleep and heart rate data, it covers it all.”

One quirk our tester noticed is that the touchscreen is not very sensitive and sometimes required a hard jab to wake up. However, this can be easily resolved by setting the display to be always on or activated by motion. Overall, the Fitbit Versa 3 is a versatile, user-friendly device that can help you stay motivated to reach your health and fitness goals with features that made it an easy pick for our best overall spot.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Smartwatch | Battery Life: 6 days | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart Rate Tracking: Yes | Connectivity: Bluetooth or Wi-Fi | Price at time of publication: $145}

4.7

Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Accuracy

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Extra-large display
Budget-friendly
Good battery life

Cons

Can’t save data

This simple pedometer has a very large display that’s easy to read, even in bright sunlight, making it a nice choice for outdoor walks. During our test, we were impressed with how it was ready to go right out of the box, scoring it a 5 out of 5 for ease of setup and use. Unlike some other pedometers, it doesn’t require you to download any apps or connect with other devices to get started.

The 3DFitBud’s versatility lies not in its list of features, but in its wearability. Our tester tried it out by clipping it to a waistband, wearing it on the included lanyard, and carrying it in a pocket. It felt comfortable in all positions and consistently kept an accurate step count, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for accuracy.

Testing Notes: “I’d recommend this device to anyone looking for a simple and inexpensive step counter. It’s accurate, easy to use, and has a large display to see your step count at a quick glance.”

You won’t be able to use this pedometer to track stats like calories burned or heart rate. But it’s a nice option for anyone who wants an affordable step counter that’s simple to use and has a battery that doesn’t require charging.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Clip-on or lanyard | Battery Life: 12 months | Water-resistant: Not listed | Heart Rate Tracking: No | Connectivity: None | Price at time of publication: $40}

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Accuracy

4.5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

User-friendly
Long battery life
Stores up to 30 days of records

Cons

May be too bulky for some
No advanced tracking or features

The iGank Simple Walking Pedometer is just that: a basic, affordable device that’s a cinch to set up and easy to use. The instructions are printed right on the package rather than in an included user guide. Just start walking for it to record your steps. Then, hit the reset button at the end of a walk or when you’re ready to start a new daily step tally.

In our testing, the device’s straightforward, one-button design helped to earn it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for both ease of use and setup. However, its basic functionality means that you can only use it to track steps and nothing else, which is why we gave it a 3 out of 5 for its features.

Testing Note: “You don’t get a lot of features and functionality with this pedometer, but it’s ideal for someone looking for a budget-friendly, old-school pedometer that’s easy to set up and use. I like that you can just clip it onto a belt loop or bag, or even carry it comfortably in hand.”

During our test, the pedometer worked accurately whether it was clipped onto a belt loop, carried in a pocket or bag, or held in hand. Overall, it’s perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with a complicated setup and is not interested in advanced features or tracking through an app. Plus, the device comes with a replaceable battery, so you don’t have to worry about recharging it.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Clip-on (carabiner) | Battery Life: Up to one year | Water-resistant: Not listed | Heart Rate Tracking: No | Connectivity: None | Price at time of publication: $18}

4.7

REI

Our Ratings

Setup

4/5
Comfort

5/5
Ease of Use

4/5
Accuracy

4.5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Lots of data tracking options
Running-specific metrics
Easy-to-read display

Cons

Expensive
May be too much functionality for some

For avid runners who also want to track their step count, we recommend Garmin Forerunner 55 as a quality option that offers plenty of running-specific metrics, including distance, pace, race goals, and more.

Right away, we were impressed with the watch’s lightweight feel and sleek design that make it easy and comfortable to wear all day. In fact, the Forerunner 55 received a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for comfort. Although it has a lot of features and functionality to track activities and health data, it also offers basic step counting, so you can easily monitor your daily progress.

During our test, the watch was simple to set up and use, especially given its many features. It has five different buttons, but our tester noted that the buttons are fairly intuitive and easy to press. We were also impressed with the display, which is clear and allows for customization, so you can view stats that are most relevant to your workout.

Testing Notes: “As an avid runner and running coach, I’ve been using Garmin devices for many years, and I’ve always been impressed with their quality and features. This version of the Forerunner doesn’t disappoint. It’s lightweight, comfortable, easy to read, and has an impressive battery life, so it checks off many of my must-haves in a tracker.”

Surprisingly, the Forerunner 55 didn’t nail our step count test as well as some of the less expensive, basic pedometers that we tested. However, its GPS functionality and distance measuring was spot-on, so we still gave it a 4 out of 5 for accuracy. The battery life is impressive for a device that tracks so much data at once.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Wristband | Battery Life: 10 days in smartwatch mode; up to 20 hours in GPS mode Water-resistant: Yes | Heart Rate Tracking: Yes | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Price at time of publication: $200}

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Accuracy

4.5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Good battery life
Large display

Cons

No app
Limited data storage

Realalt 3DTriSport Walking 3D Pedometer Review

If you're looking for a basic step counter, the Realalt 3DTriSport is a budget-friendly, practical option. We like it for its ease of use and setup, scoring a 5 out of 5 for those categories thanks to its simple design. You can use it to track your steps, calories burned, and distance walked—plus, you can set daily goals. Our tester appreciated the large display that made it easy to see her progress at a quick glance. Although the pedometer doesn’t offer long-term storage of your data, you can save your stats for up to 30 days.

During our test, the 3DTriSport worked well whether it was clipped to a waistband or worn around the neck using the included lanyard. Additionally, it comes with a replaceable battery that doesn’t need charging, a huge plus for those who don’t want to deal with constantly recharging a device.

Testing Notes: “I love this pedometer for its simplicity and ease of use. It was a breeze to set up and I could start using it right away. It’s a great option for anyone who just wants a stand-alone pedometer that’s simple, easy to read to track their daily steps and distance, and doesn’t require a lot of setup or battery charging.”

The pedometer also counted steps well, receiving a 4.5 out of 5 for accuracy. While it won’t win any design awards and it doesn’t have as many advanced features as other devices we tested, it’s a nice pick for a simple, user-friendly pedometer.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Clip-on or lanyard | Battery Life: One year | Water-resistant: Not listed | Heart Rate Tracking: No | Connectivity: No | Price at time of publication: $25}

Verywell Fit / Ashley Mateo

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

4.5/5
Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

4/5
Accuracy

4/5
Value

4/5

Pros

No battery recharging required
Simple to navigate
Lightweight

Cons

Very small display
Strap can feel stiff

Frustrated with having to constantly recharge your fitness tracker? Enter the Garmin Vivofit 4. This pedometer features a replaceable coin cell battery that can last for a full year of use, so you can wear it all the time without worrying about remembering to bring a charging cord with you.

With no initial battery charging needed, it was super easy to get started with the Vivofit 4, and we rated it a 4.5 out of 5 for ease of setup. Our tester synced the watch with the app, navigated through the prompts, and had the device ready to go in less than five minutes. Using it was just as simple, since it automatically starts tracking your activities once it senses movement.

During our test, we liked that the display was always on and easy to see, even in direct sunlight. Our tester found it simple to track steps as well as distance and calories burned. The Vivofit 4 also monitors sleep and provides a personalized daily step goal. It’s simple to navigate through the basic data on the display, but you can dig deeper into your stats using the Garmin Connect app.

Testing Notes: “As someone who struggles with staying on top of charging my devices, I like that I don’t have to even think about it with this tracker. I can just leave it on without monitoring the battery life and worrying about it dying in the middle of the day.”

The included band is a bit stiff and not very attractive but it’s easy to swap out for more stylish, compatible options. Overall, the Vivofit 4 doesn’t have as many advanced features as some other fitness trackers do, but it’s a convenient, simple option for those who want to ditch the charging cord while tracking their steps and other health data 24/7.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Wristband | Battery Life: One year | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart Rate Tracking: No | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Price at time of publication: $80}

4.7

Walmart

Pros

Can track different workouts
Easy to set up and use
Slim, sleek design

Cons

Font may be hard to read
May buzz frequently

With its sleek, comfortable design and easy-to-use features, Fitbit’s Inspire 2 is a great choice, no matter your level of fitness or technical expertise. It tracks your steps, heart rate, calories burned, distance, active minutes, and sleep status, all while alerting you to any texts or calls. Plus, you can use the pedometer to record a wide range of workouts, including runs, swims, and bike rides.

Right out of the box, we were impressed with the device’s soft, smooth band and slim, lightweight design, which earned it a 5 out of 5 for comfort. To get started, our tester first needed to download the app and fully charge the device, but setting it up was a very straightforward process.

During our test, both the steps and distance tracking were spot on, so we gave the device a 5 out of 5 for accuracy. Our tester also liked the motivational prompts that push you to stay active and reach your weekly fitness goals. Even with all of its features, one charge lasts up to 10 days, earning the device a 4.5 out of 5 for battery life.

Testing Notes: “The Fitbit Inspire 2 is so comfortable that I almost forgot I was wearing it. The lightweight, slim design makes it a nice pick for those who want to monitor their steps all day.”

The Fitbit Inspire 2 may have too many features for someone who just wants to count their daily steps, but its comfort, durable design, and long battery life make it a good option for those who want a smartwatch to accurately track their activity all day long.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Wristband | Battery Life: Up to 10 days | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart Rate Tracking: Yes | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Price at time of publication: $100}

4.2

Lifewire / Erika Rawes

Our Ratings

Design

4/5
Comfort/Fit

4/5
Durability/Waterproofing

4/5
Battery Life

4/5
Screen

3/5

Pros

Very accurate
User-friendly
Good for long-term wear

Cons

Need to use the app for full functionality
Small display

If you love having easy access to your step count but don’t want to clip a big pedometer to your waistband, the Garmin Vivosmart 4 is a sleek, ideal option. Made with an ultra-slim wristband design, it tracks your steps, distance, heart rate, sleep quality, and even your rate of oxygen consumption. Plus, it syncs with your phone and uses GPS navigation to provide you with accurate data during outdoor walks, runs, and hikes.

Our tester found the device easy to set up after syncing it with the Garmin Connect app. You need to use the app to use all of the features and change some of the settings, which may be frustrating for those who like a simple tracking device. However, you can have a lot of stats available right at your fingertips on the device itself. With an intuitive, uncomplicated interface, it was very straightforward to use, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for ease of use.

Our tester wore the Vivosmart 4 consistently for a few days and noticed that it didn’t interfere with any activities. It was also comfortable to wear while sleeping. The lightweight, narrow band looks and feels like a comfortable bracelet, helping to earn the device a 5 out of 5 for comfort.

Testing Notes: “This tracker is a convenient way to track daily steps, and I like that it gives some other helpful data while still maintaining its simple design and functionality.”

Given its features, the device has an impressive battery life. It lasted about six days without needing a charge, a huge plus for those who like to wear their tracker 24/7. The device also performed well in our step count and distance accuracy tests, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for accuracy.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Wristband | Battery Life: Up to 7 days | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart Rate Tracking: Yes | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Price at time of publication: $130}

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Accuracy

4.5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Accurate
Easy to set up

Cons

Can’t save data

If you’re sick of squinting while trying to read your step count on a small screen, then you’ll enjoy this pedometer’s extra-large display. The device’s simple and straightforward design impressed us right away, earning it a 5 out of 5 for ease of use and setup. Our tester didn’t even need to consult the product instructions, since getting started was as simple as pressing the pedometer’s one button. If you stop to take a break, the device goes to sleep, but it continues to count steps once you start moving again.

Lightweight and compact, the device can be clipped onto a waistband, carried in a pocket or bag, or worn around the neck using the included lanyard. Our tester tried carrying it in a few different spots, and it consistently provided accurate results.

Testing Notes: “It’s so easy to read the step count with this pedometer’s extra-large display. Its minimal functionality makes it extremely simple to set up and operate. This device is an ideal pick for someone who wants a basic, affordable pedometer.”

Although it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some other devices we tested, this pedometer is perfect for those who want a basic device that’s easy to read and use.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Clip-on or lanyard | Battery Life: Replaceable | Water-resistant: Not listed | Heart Rate Tracking: No | Connectivity: None | Price at time of publication: $14}

4.5

Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

4/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Ease of Use

4/5
Accuracy

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Very accurate
Good for sleep tracking
Easy to read display

Cons

Pricier than some other options
May be too much functionality for some

If you’d like an accurate pedometer for hiking, but the rugged look of some hiking watches doesn’t appeal to you, the Polar Ignite should suit your needs. It’s a stylish (but practical) fitness watch that can track your steps, distance, heart rate, and calories. It’s also very durable and has a large display that’s easy to read in bright sunlight, making it a nice companion for hikes, runs, and walks.

During our test, the Polar Ignite was comfortable to wear, even while sleeping, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort. The watch’s features also stood out, including its color touchscreen display, GPS tracking, and personalized workout guidance. Our tester was impressed with how it uses the sleep data to measure how well your body recovers during the night and then gives helpful suggestions and daily personalized workout tips.

Testing Notes: “This device goes way beyond basic step counting and distance tracking. I really like the workout suggestions based on your training history. The sleep quality tracking module is very thorough and ties into the adaptive training recommendations.”

The watch also performed well in our accuracy tests, earning a 4.5 out of 5. And unlike some watches with built-in GPS, it didn’t lose its signal during our test, even on trails. In general, the Polar Ignite is a reliable, versatile choice to bring along for outdoor adventures.

_{Key Specs:
Style: Wristband | Battery Life: 3 days | Water-resistant: Yes | Heart Rate Tracking: Yes | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Price at time of publication: $230}

		Overall Rating	Setup	Comfort	Ease of Use	Accuracy	Value
Best Overall: Fitbit Versa 3	Amazon	4.8	4	4.5	4.5	5	4.5
Best No-Frills: 3DActive 3DFitBud Simple Step Counter 3D Pedometer	Amazon	4.7	5	4	5	4.5	4.5
Best Budget: iGANK Simple Walking Pedometer	Amazon	4.5	5	4	5	4.5	4
Best for Running: Garmin Forerunner 55	Amazon	4.7	4	5	4	4.5	4
Best for Walks: Realalt 3DTriSport Walking 3D Pedometer	Amazon	4.5	5	4	5	4.5	4
Best Battery Life: Garmin Vivofit 4	Amazon	4.5	4.5	4	4	4	4
Best for Accuracy: Fitbit Inspire 2 Fitness Tracker	Amazon	4.7
Best Discreet: Garmin Vivosmart 4	Amazon	4.2
Best Large Display: Broadsheet Pedometer	Amazon	4.5	5	4	5	4.5	4
Best for Hiking: Polar Ignite Advanced Waterproof Fitness Watch	Amazon	4.5	4	4.5	4	4.5	4.5

How We Rated the Pedometers

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best pedometers we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These pedometers are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.4 stars: We think these are great pedometers, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These pedometers are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend pedometers with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

How We Selected and Tested the Best Pedometers

We sorted through a wide variety of pedometers and selected ten products to put through our regimen of testing, making sure to include devices at different price points that offered various features. Each pedometer was evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5 (with 1 being not recommendable and 5 being exceptional) in eight categories: setup, comfort, ease of use, features, battery life, accuracy, appearance, and value.

We spent four weeks testing the devices by wearing them while exercising and during our day-to-day activities. If the device offered sleep tracking, our tester wore it to sleep—and if it was water-resistant, in the shower, too.

Testers wore the devices to track daily steps while walking and also completed at least one 3-mile run while wearing it. We performed two accuracy tests: one to test the step counting functionality and one to test the distance measuring, if the device offered distance tracking. To evaluate the battery, we noted how long the battery lasted with regular use and how long it took it to reach a full charge.

What to Look for in a Pedometer

Accuracy

Since the main function of most pedometers is to count the steps you take, a good one should be able to precisely track your movement. But don’t assume that a product’s price tag is an indication of how accurate it is. Even basic, inexpensive pedometers can offer error-free step counts. Do your research and look for manufacturers and devices that are known for their quality and accuracy.

Style

Pedometers can be worn a few different ways—in a lanyard around your neck, clipped onto your waistband, or on your wrist like a watch. The style that suits you best will depend on what you're planning on using your pedometer for and how often you want to use it.

Battery Life

Most pedometers boast long-lasting batteries, which is good news for anyone who wants to cut down on charging time. Low-tech options tend to have longer-lasting batteries than high-tech options, so keep these tradeoffs in mind as you shop.

Special Features

Some pedometers, like Realalt's 3dTriSport, only include the basics: step count, activity time, and distance. But higher-tech options, like Fitbit's Inspire 2, often have special features, like all-day heart rate tracking. You can even find water-resistant pedometers, which are great for anyone who exercises outdoors or swimmers.

Heart rate tracking is another helpful metric for anyone who wants to measure the intensity of their workouts. However, pedometers with multiple special features tend to have a higher price point.

When choosing a pedometer, consider how much data and feedback you’d like from your device. “Some people like as much data as possible, whereas others don't love the feeling of being constantly evaluated or can even develop anxiety surrounding their personal data metrics,” Megan Roche, a running coach and five-time national ultrarunning champion, says. “If you might fall into the latter category, choosing a device where you can turn on and off certain data components can be helpful.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a pedometer help people reach their fitness goals?

Pedometers can help you reach your fitness goals in different ways. For starters, they can help you understand how much you’re already exercising on a day-to-day basis.
“Many people are surprised to find out that they don't move as much as they thought,” Daniel Sullivan, CPT, a Dallas-based personal trainer, says. “Wearing a pedometer will help you become more aware of how you move throughout the day, and to work toward moving more.”
Once you understand how much you’re currently exercising, you can create fitness goals for the future—and you can use your pedometer to track your progress.
“Holding yourself accountable is absolutely critical to your success,” Sullivan says. “Pedometers will not only help keep you on track, but they will also encourage you to build other healthy habits, like trying new workouts, as your fitness level increases.”
What does a pedometer measure?

In its most basic form, a pedometer measures the number of steps you take while wearing it. But they often measure how far you’ve walked and how much time you’ve spent walking, too. If you’re willing to invest in a higher-tech option, you can often track other forms of exercise, such as cycling and swimming, as well as more advanced metrics.
“Data gained from fitness trackers including resting heart rate, sleep, [heart rate variability], pace, and daily steps can be used to see how the body is responding to training,” Roche says. “These devices are often great for encouraging needed rest and recovery days to allow the body to adapt and build back stronger.”
How much does a pedometer cost?

Generally, you can expect to pay $15-$200 for a quality pedometer. Cheaper options may not track enough stats to help you reach your fitness goal, and they may also be less accurate. More expensive options may come with too many additional features and can be confusing to use. The cheapest option on our list, Broadsheet's Pedometer, is often available for $14, while our top recommendation, Fitbit's Versa 3, was $162 when we published this list.
How does a pedometer track steps?

Pedometers typically track steps by picking up on the way you move when you walk. Your hips may move up or down—or your body may sway from side to side. Many pedometers use these motions to determine how many steps you’ve taken.
Can a pedometer be used for bike riding?

Basic pedometers are designed to track steps, so they may not be able to track your cycling workouts effectively. That said, there are plenty of fitness trackers out there that are capable of tracking both walking and cycling workouts in great detail.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

A certified personal trainer, running coach, gym buff, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, spends countless hours researching and testing the latest exercise gear and gadgets. She only recommends products that she can genuinely stand behind and that she believes would be a good investment for her readers.