Counting steps - the idea seems a little strange. In fact, such a calculation is sometimes simply necessary.
They are used to distract from disturbing thoughts, relieve emotional stress, in some types of sports training, for weight loss, for tone and in some cases associated with the need to increase physical activity.
Counting steps in your head is tedious and easy to get lost. Therefore, devices for counting were developed, pedometers, very different, there are built-in phones.
Pedometers - features
From the name itself it becomes clear that this is a device that allows you to count the number of steps taken by a person.
There are 4 types:
- Mechanical. Not released for a long time, but found. The basis is a weight. He changes position when moving. At the same time, the readings and the number of steps change on the dial.
- Mechanical and electronic. There are two devices in the design: a pulse counter and a motion sensor. The principle of operation is similar to the device described below.
- Electronic pedometers. Consists of three accelerometers. When moving, the device is shaken, the pulses are converted, reflected on the dial in the form of numerical readings.
- Telephone. Special software associated with the accelerometer installed in the phone. The pedometer will not work without it. More details below.
How does a pedometer work in a phone?
Essentially, it is software. It is designed to count the movements made. In our case, steps.
The principle of operation is simple and is as follows:
- An accelerometer (sensor) built into the phone or the pedometer itself determines the location of a person in space.
- A person takes a step and his position changes. Movement (change of location) is recorded by a sensor. Actually, he notes the rhythmic vibrations made during movement.
- The electronic impulse generated by a change in body position is taken into account by the program.
- The pulses are converted to a numerical value, and it is displayed on the phone screen as the number of steps taken.
It should be noted and this is important. Without an accelerator, the pedometer will not work. Therefore, before you start using it, you need to make sure that the phone already has a built-in sensor. If there is none, then we select a device with an accelerator. Otherwise, it is useless.
How to choose and install a pedometer on your phone?
Usually phones are produced without a built-in pedometer. The user will have to select and install it. How to do it?
Actions:
- we decide on the operating system installed on the phone;
- go to the Internet;
- we select software for the installed OS;
- download and install on the phone, following the installation instructions;
- open the function and settings option and customize the pedometer according to your wishes and needs.
Everything. You can use it. You can customize everything, but you can only customize some of the following functions:
- number of movements (steps);
- time spent walking or running (active);
- distance traveled per lesson (in km or m);
- calories burned;
- analysis of the collected information, which is issued in the form of a graph (the activity in the classroom and the progress achieved are noted);
- data archive;
- class diary;
- set tasks, goals;
- workout reminders;
- weather conditions are monitored;
- communication with other participants in the classes is possible and not only;
- using the program, you can correct the route (using satellite navigation).
Using such an application can be of great help in getting things done. But in order for the device to work as expected and in full force, it is necessary to use it correctly. For example, where to place it while driving?
Where should you keep your phone?
The most interesting thing is that its placement does not matter much. Can be put in a jacket or trousers pocket, it doesn't matter. You can place it upside down and parallel to the ground. As you wish. The main thing is that the phone should feel the body and be connected to it.
The location does not affect the performance of the device, but it can significantly affect the results.
How accurate are the measurements?
It should be noted that at the household level, such a device is sufficient. However, when using a telephone pedometer, remember that the manufacturer rarely cares about high accuracy. Therefore, the measurement error can reach 30%.
In addition, it can be affected by the place on the body where the device is located. For example, if you put the phone on a strap and hang it around your neck, then the errors in measurements will be maximum.
Since, in addition to the steps, additional vibrations of the lace with the device will also be recorded. The best location is in your trouser pocket.
Why is the pedometer showing incorrect values?
There are many reasons for the distortion of accuracy.
To mark just a few:
- terrain relief (most accurate measurements on asphalt paths);
- phone malfunction (for example, the battery is discharged);
- extraneous actions during classes (conversations and the like);
- temperature (in the heat, the readings are distorted) and some others.
Pedometer rules
Actually, when using such a pedometer, you must first of all strictly follow the rules for using the phone.
Besides:
- for more accurate measurements, you need to correctly position the phone with the installed pedometer;
- observe the temperature regime (+10 - to -40);
- instructions supplied with the software.
Benefits of a pedometer on your phone
The pedometer on the phone compares favorably with other similar devices with its compactness, lack of mechanical parts, and, consequently, their care, as well as their repair.
Besides:
- you can pick up a free application;
- you can customize it for yourself;
- wide range of functions;
- pedometer is always with you.
At the end of the article, it is worth asking one question. Can a pedometer be used, is it harmful? It turns out not.
Such a device will do no harm, especially since it will not bring a mobile application to a person. And the benefits are undeniable. Especially for those who have decided to improve their failing health or for people leading a healthy lifestyle.
