Pedometers: unless you are an avid exerciser we recommend you buy a pedometer. This is a very small cheap gadget you place on a belt or waist band and it records your daily steps. It is extremely helpful and encouraging.
Pedometer can be purchased from electrical or sports stores, or off the internet.
It is thought that most people do an average of 4000 steps a day going about their daily business – the goal would be to add anything from 2000 to 3000 more steps a day.
Here are some basics –
Under 5000 = sedentary
5000 to 7000 = low activity
7000 to 10000 = medium activity
Over 10000 = active
Over 13000 = very active
If you are worried about your children’s activity levels and their health, get them to wear a pedometer for a day. From the age of 6 to 12 they need about 12000 to 15000 steps a day.