How to Measure Distances for Fitness Walking

Measuring the distance you walk helps you keep track of your fitness goals. Walking is a wonderful way to have a lifetime fitness program you can stick with.

Things You'll Need

• Good walking shoes
• Measuring tape
• Pedometer (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  If you are measuring the distance you walk using a pedometer, you have to set it up first. Each person's stride (one step length) is a different distance. Most pedometers ask you to enter your stride length so it can accurately measure the distance you are walking. You can measure stride length one of two ways - 1. Take a step and measure it. This isn't recommended because you tend to step artificially, not as you would normally walk. 2. A better way is to measure a distance, say 20 feet, then walk it normally and see how many steps you take. Divide distance by number of steps and enter that stride length into the pedometer.

• 2

  If you want to check the length of your regular walking route, you can set the pedometer at the start, then walk the route, and check the pedometer at the end. You can adjust your start or turnaround point if you need a little more or less to make it an even distance. Do this for a couple of routes, then you'll know how long they are when you walk them, and you won't need to wear the pedometer each time.

• 3

  An alternate method that doesn't require a pedometer is to go to a school running track nearby. A track is normally 1/4 mile long. Walk the track at the pace you normally do your fitness walking, but count the steps it takes you to go 1/4 mile, or once around. Walk it about 4 times around, and write down the number of steps you take each lap. It'll be a little different each time. Take the average number for the 1/4 mile, and use that as your measurement. Multiply that number x 4 and that's how many steps it takes you to walk a mile. Now you can measure walking distances anywhere!

• 4

  Now the first time you walk a new route, just count the steps in your head and you'll know the exact distance of your routes, and can just walk them in the future without counting. Mark out routes from home, at work, or around a park and you'll be able to track your walking goals and stay on track.

• 5

  I recommend the book Fitness Walking by Therese Iknoian which has great ideas for beginners as well as experienced fitness walkers (link below).
  Also check out my related eHow article, 'How to Walk from New York to Chicago Without Really Trying (Walk 3 Miles a Day)' for tips on a fitness plan you can use at work (link below)