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Updated: Friday, 23 Jan 2009, 7:13 PM EST
Published : Friday, 23 Jan 2009, 5:51 PM EST
(WTNH) - With 2009 well underway, if getting in shape was one of your New Year's resolutions, the question remains -- are you making good on that promise?
Counting steps may seem insignificant. But one woman who lost 25 pounds credits her pedometer for her weight loss. Consumer Reports tested them and found a good one for $30.
"The more I walk, the more I lose," Gail Amyot said.
Amyot has lost 25 pounds in six months. She credits her pedometer, which counts every step she takes.
She said that feedback pushes her to do more exercise every day.
Consumer Reports' medical adviser, Dr. Orly Avitzur, said studies show walking more can have a big payoff.
"Increased physical activity has been associated with numerous health benefits including reduction of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke," Dr. Avitzur said.
Consumer Reports tested two types of pedometers. The more elaborate ones are worn on the wrist and measure speed and distance, not steps.
"These work by using GPS technology to do their calculations. That means they work best outside," Marc MCentee, of Consumer Reports, said.
Unfortunately, during testing, the satellite connection occasionally dropped out so the pedometers couldn't always give a reading.
And they're pricey, too, around $200.
More basic pedometers count steps by detecting motion and are clipped on at the waist or put in a pocket.
"Accuracy was measured by comparing the results of the devices to the treadmill step count, which we know to be correct," MCentee said.
Of the eight pedometers tested, Consumer Reports named the $30 Omron Pocket pedometer a Best Buy. It was the most accurate at all speeds, even when kept in a pocket.
It could be your ticket to getting more exercise, the way Amyot's pedometer has been for her. "My goal in the next six months is to work up to 10,000 steps," she said.
The American Heart Association says the goal of 10,000 steps a day is a good one. That's the equivalent of four to five miles depending on your stride.
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