Pedometers are a great motivational tool. If you know how many steps you take each day, you can more easily increase your physical activity, which in turn can lower your blood pressure and body mass.
Mechanical pedometers use a mechanical sensor and software to count steps. The most basic pedometers use a mechanical switch to detect steps together with a simple counter. If you shakes it, you can hear a small ball sliding back and forth or a tiny pendulum.
Of course, modern technology opens up lots of cool new ways to design pedometers. Several phones and other personal electronic devices have pedometers built in.
Some iPhone/iPod/iPad apps to consider include:
Pedometer 24/7 includes a free version!
iTreadmill
Footsteps
Pocket Pedometer
Pedometer
