Can a Pedometer Work With Arm Movement?

Having a pedometer while you exercise can motivate you to keep going. The pedometer is a device that counts the number of steps you take by sensing movement at your hips. The device is useful for exercises such as stair climbing, running and skiing. Depending on the device manufacturer, pedometers can be clipped to the waistband or worn as an armband or a watch. When it comes to pedometer accuracy, there are devices designed for arm movements.

  1. Pedometer Accuracy

    • Although some pedometers are wearable on the arm, the American College of Sports Medicine states that pedometers are more accurate when attached to a firm waistband in an upright position. Other factors that can affect the accuracy are your walking speed and stomach size. Test your pedometer's accuracy by taking 20 steps with it on and checking whether the device calculated between 18 to 22 steps. If the pedometer fails this test, try another device.

    Choosing a Modern Pedometer

    • Traditional pedometers are designed to be worn at the waistband. Modern pedometers combine a variety of fitness tracking technology, such as the accelerometer, to improve accuracy and your wearable options. For instance, the FitBit device is an electronic pedometer, which goes a step further and gives you information on your calorie expenditure, distances travelled and sleep. You wear the FitBit product "Flex" on the wrist; therefore it takes into account arm movement. Similar devices include the Nike FuelBand, Jawbone Up and LarkLife. These devices integrate with your smartphone and display your activity data.

    The Right Pedometer for You

    • When deciding which pedometer to choose, consider ease of use and what features you’re looking for. The modern pedometers allow you to accurately calculate your steps with arm movement but may require more information to get started, such as your weight, height and activity level. With standard spring mechanism pedometers, you can just clip it on and start walking, but they have to be positioned vertically on the waist for accuracy.

    Considering Other Options

    • By considering all of the options available, you may find that the pedometer is not for you. You can use a heart rate monitor to calculate your calorie expenditure or mobile-integrated GPS trackers. You can also use time and your workout intensity to monitor your work rate. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running uphill. Use a stopwatch to time 25 minutes of vigorous exercise three times a week for fitness.