The use of pedometers to increase the physical activity in adults: A review

Physical inactivity has become a major public health problem because it is one of the biggest risk factors for multiple diseases. Walking is an easy way to increase physical activity (PA), and pedometers are technological devices that can help to increase and maintain the motivation for walking and PA in general. The main objective of this paper is to conduct a review of the existing scientific literature on the effectiveness of these interventions in adults. To do so, the paper will analyze the characteristics of pedometers and pe dometer-based interventions, the characteristics of users who have enjoyed more benefits from these interventions, the main theoretical models for pedometer use in PA interventions, the advantages and disadvantages of using pedometers in PA interventions, and the potential of the new generation of pedometers to increase PA levels. Although more evidence is needed, results indicate that pedometers are useful tools to increase PA. (C) 2015 Colegio Oficial de Psicologos de Madrid. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U.