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FAQ's
My pedometer asks me to put in my stride length, how do I calculate my stride length for my pedometer? What is the difference between walking and running with your pedometer? How many steps does it take to walk 1 mile? How many steps do I need to take each day to lose weight? Where should I wear my pedometer? Why should I use a pedometer? What are some ways to increase the # of steps I take each day? What are the rewards for participating in Taking Strides?
My pedometer asks me to put in my stride length, how do I calculate my stride length for my pedometer? You can calculate your stride length by walking a known distance and dividing by the number of steps it takes to cover that distance.
Procedure for determining stride length using the Fieldhouse Track 1. Reset the number of steps on your pedometer 2. Put the pedometer on your hip (clip to your pants) 3. Walk one lap at your "normal" pace at the fieldhouse track 4. Record the number of steps you took in one lap
Distance per lap for Field House Indoor track: Lane 1 = 489.7 feet Lane 2 = 512.7 feet Lane 3 = 534.6 feet Lane 4 = 559.7 feet
1. Distance per lap in feet (use chart above) _____________ 2. Number of steps in one lap (on your pedometer) _____________ 3. Distance per step (#1 ÷ #2) _____________ (your stride length) 4. Divide 5280 by #3 _____________ to determine the number of strides (steps) per mile
What is the difference between walking and running with your pedometer? o Your stride length will probably be a little longer when running. Because of this you may want to calculate your stride length while running as well as walking. There is not that much of a difference so it is not essential to change your stride length on your pedometer when you are running.
How many steps does it take to walk 1 mile? On Average: o 500 steps ˜ 1/4 mile o 1000 steps ˜ 1/2 mile o 2000 steps ˜ 1 mile o 10,000 steps ˜ 5 miles
How many steps do I need take each day to lose weight? o In a nutshell, if your body uses more energy than you consume through the food you eat (or vice versa), you will see weight and/or body composition changes. Weight loss is achieved through caloric imbalance. Remember that this takes time and that many folks do not see a weight loss through physical activity alone but through a combination of increased physical activity and dietary changes.
Where should I wear my pedometer? o Your pedometer should be worn about half way between the side of your body and your belly button on the waistband of your pants.
Why should I use a pedometer? A pedometer helps remind you to be more active! When you use your pedometer you will be able to receive immediate feedback! Use this to motivate you to be more active. A pedometer can show you how active you really are!
What are some ways to increase the # of steps I take each day? o Park further away from your destination o Take the stairs instead of the elevator o Walk to class or work o Take breaks when studying or working to go on a 5 minute walk o Take your own or a neighbor's dog on a walk o Ask a friend to go on a walk instead of out to eat o At the grocery store take your cart back in the store when you are finished with it o Watch your weekly TV show while walking on a treadmill o When you watch TV get up and walk around during the commercials o Replace one car trip with a walking trip each day o Walk around while talking on the phone o Clean your house/apartment o Offer to rake your own or someone else's yard o When working or studying, get up and walk to talk to someone vs. using the phone or email
What are the rewards for participating in Taking Strides? Each participant will earn specific rewards for achieving their goals for a specific number of weeks. For instance, the 4-week prize is a CD opener. Participants will earn this prize once they have met their step goal for 4 weeks. Click here for a list of the other prizes available
