How to Calibrate a Pedometer

All pedometers measure walking distance. Its function is to count steps of its user. Whether you're a walker, runner or a person who wants to maintain a healthy lifestyle and get the recommended 10,000 steps per day, many types of pedometers are available. However, you must calibrate a pedometer to measure your stride.

Instructions

  1. Wet foot walk

    • 1

      Read the pedometer instructions carefully. Most ask for step length. If instead it wants the stride length, this may be the same as step length or two complete steps.

    • 2

      Create a puddle of water on an open sidewalk. Walk through the water at a normal stride for approximately 10 steps beyond the puddle.

    • 3

      Measure the walking distance between the heel of the left footprint and the heel of the right footprint. Take several left to right heel measurements and average them.

    • 4

      Wear the pedometer straight up and down on a belt or waist band for best results.

    Measure for short- or long-distance walking

    • 5

      Qualify short-distance walking by measuring a known distance of 20 to 30 feet. Stride the measured distance at a normal pace. Divide the number of feet by the number of steps taken.

    • 6

      Criteria for long distance is measured by strolling the length of a football field from goal line to goal line which is 300 feet. Mark the heel strike on the tenth step.

    • 7

      Count the number of steps taken and divide by 300 for long distance walking. Make adjustments for a varied-pace walk or run.