A pedometer is often referred to as a "Step Counter" as its basic function is to count steps. It is used to help walkers and runners go the distance while keeping them motivated to take extra steps.

It is advised to take 10,000 steps per day for long-term health and reduced chronic disease risk (10,000 steps is equivalent to 30 minutes of exercise) and 12,000 – 15,000 steps per day for successful sustained weight loss. To build aerobic fitness, 3,000 of the daily step intake should be made at a fast pace.

As the daily step intake is increased, users notice that there are real changes in their physical and mental state as they gain more energy, reduce their stress levels and improve their sleeping patterns.

Pedometers are now becoming more sophisticated as there are now models that can record the distance that has been travelled and the number of calories burned.