Pedometers encourage diabetes exercise

Using a pedometer alongside web diagnostic tools to track levels of physical activity was confirmed as a powerful motivator for diabetic people to exercise more. The diabetics participated in a walking survey, set up by a research team from the University of Michigan Health System, alongside the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.
The team tracked a number of participants, each of whom wore pedometers, and were given weekly automated goals depending on their walking activity. These goals included structured goals for half, and lifestyle goals for the other. The goals were found to significantly alter satisfaction with the program.
The lead author of the study, Carolin Richardso, reportedly commented: “Walkers in the group where every step counted experienced the same benefit as those who just had their bout steps recorded. The fact that they were also more satisfied with their program suggests that this approach may be more successful for many people than a program that only recognizes long periods of activity.”