Accuracy of piezoelectric pedometer step counts in different wearing locations

Abstract

Background: Pedometers are simple and inexpensive devices used as a motivational tool or in rehabilitation interventions for chronic respiratory diseases. Piezoelectric pedometers may be worn at different body locations; however, their impact on pedometer accuracy has been scarcely explored. In addition, it is unknown which locations are preferred by patients, despite its importance to improve user9s acceptance. Aims: To assess the accuracy of a piezoeletric pedometer (Yamax EX-510) in counting steps, when worn at different body locations, and identify users9 preferred location(s). Methods: Sixty-three healthy adults (45.8±20.6yrs) wore 7 pedometers (neck, lateral/front right/left of the waist, pockets of the trousers), while walking 120m at slow, self-preferred (normal) and fast paces. Steps were manually counted (criterion measure) and pedometer steps were recorded. Tests were repeated twice. Participants indicated their preferred location(s) to wear a pedometer. Absolute percent error (APE) and the Bland and Altman method were used to examine device accuracy and consistency. Results: APE was, on average, 0.05). Most patients preferred to wear the pedometer inside the right (n=25) and left (n=20) pockets. Conclusions: Yamax EX-510 pedometers can be used to monitor walking activity, as they provide accurate results even at slower speeds (considering a 10%error 1 ). They should be worn at the front of the waist or inside the pockets. 1 Crouter SE, et al. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2003;35(8):1455-60.