Last year this blog suggested that a pedometer would make a healthy Christmas present. This year, you were advised of the AARP offer of a free pedometer.

But, did you get one?

Here’s why you should have.

First, the details.

• To evaluate the association between pedometers and physical activity and health outcomes, researchers reviewed studies where at least 5 adults used a pedometer and reported a change in steps per day.
• They found 26 studies of 2767 participants who were studied for an average of 18 weeks.

And, the results.

• Pedometer users significantly increased their physical activity by 2183 steps per day — +27% compared to the start of the studies.
• A predictor of increased physical activity was having a step goal such as 10,000 steps per day.
• Pedometer users significantly decreased their body mass index by 0.38.
• They also significantly decreased their systolic blood pressure by 3.8 mm Hg.
• The change in blood pressure was greater in those with higher systolic blood pressure and a change in steps per day.

Ms. Wendy Bumgardner, a certified marathon coach, has written all you’ll ever want to know about pedometers at About.com.

11/22/07 18:55 JR