Sourcing Pedometers

Sourcing pedometers

Paths for All do not hold a stock of pedometers for sale, although through our Walk at Work programme we are able to supply pedometer packs to workplaces taking part in the Walk at Work scheme.

There is a wide range of pedometers on the market so it is worth taking time to consider which pedometer is the best model for your project and target group. All pedometers measure the number of steps taken and some may also convert this into distance travelled (e.g. in metres or kilometres) and/or energy expended (as calories burned). They can vary in price from around £4 up to £30. Please remember that giving out pedometers alone has very little effect on increasing physical activity and they are most effective when used with personalised goal setting and when targeting the most inactive people. So consider what you are aiming to achieve.

Generally, the more expensive the model the more features it will have e.g. steps, distance, calories, speed, time and memory. Unless your project wants to use a range of data, such as calories burned, it is best to opt for a simple but reliable model that just counts steps. If you choose a model that shows distance as well as steps be aware that, as each person’s stride length differs, you will usually need to set up the pedometer starting. This does require extra work and time. If you do decide to use a model that provides a range of data, make sure you know how you will collect and analyse this data before you pay for something you don’t need or have not time to use effectively.

When you are choosing a pedometer consider:

• how much money you have to spend
• if they will be kept by or loaned to walkers
• what data you want to collect (and can realistically use)
• how simple it is to use and read
• if you want any extras such as bright colours or lanyards
• if the battery is already installed and an activation tab in place does the price include a spare battery

Then:

• check with local contacts what models worked (or did not) for them
• buy a trial batch; ask some of your walkers to test them Always test the pedometer with the person who is going to use the pedometer and make sure it is recording before they start using it i.e. get them to walk and count 30-100 steps and see if the pedometer counts the same

Paths for All are currently using the Silva Pedometer Step Counter. This pedometer is a very simple step counter, weighing only 22 grams it attaches to trousers or belt and counts steps only.

Paths for All have made an arrangement with Be-Active for health walking projects in Scotland to receive the following pricing when ordering the Silva Pedometer Step Counter:

• 1-10 pieces @ £9.99 each
• 11-100 pieces @ £9.25 each
• 101-500 pieces @ £8.75 each

All price include VAT and postage and packaging.

If you are interested in purchasing the Silva Pedometer Step Counter, please email info@be-activeltd.co.uk quoting 'Paths for All'.

Please note, you will be dealing directly with Be-Active and all enquiries should be made to them. This applies to the Silva Pedometer Step Counter model only.