What is today known as a pedometer used to be known as a calibrated odometer, Tomish-meter, a hike-o-meter and also step counter. A pedometer is basically a device used to help people maintain their physical fitness and a high level of activity.
Perhaps the first use of pedometers can be dated back to the time of the early Romans. Steps were counted in order to measure distances, not for the purpose of the physical fitness of the Roman soldiers, but for whatever military and civil purposes that distance measurement may serve the Romans. Leonardo da Vinci also saw the possible military uses of a mechanical pedometer, and this was evident in his paintings, depicting Roman soldiers carrying such a device.
Later on the third president of the USA, Thomas Jefferson, saw the potential. He obtained his first pedometer from France, but it is still not certain if he had it modified or not. Nonetheless, the device was then known as a Tomish-meter and it worked by a swinging pendulum.
After that the device became popular and then was marketed throughout the United States. The name then changed to hike-o-meter. There was also a Japanese version of this, known as the manpo-keis which was then marketed starting in 1965. The literal translation of the Japanese pedometer is 10,000 step meter.
Pedometers were constructed differently before, unlike the modern versions that are even capable of being integrated into different electronic gadgets. Before, they were composed of lead balls that swing back and forth similar to that of a pendulum. They were tied to the hips, wherein the lead ball strikes the meter every now and then. This was rather an inaccurate way of measuring, unlike the precise and digital versions of today's era.
Although pedometers are common now, in earlier times they were used by runners to measure distances. In those times the pedometer was very important, especially among athletes. However, today they are mainly used for counting and recording the number of steps taken. The main reason for this is that walking has become a standard form of exercise and more strenuous activities are no longer required before someone is considered to be exercising.
For those who are weak or too overweight to take part of regular exercises, but nevertheless need exercise, pedometers are a great help since they track how much is being done. Diabetics and chronically ill people will quickly see the value of pedometers and their use as a tool to keep fit.
From measuring distances to staying healthy, the pedometer has indeed evolved from a simple tool to a healthy aid. They may have been a lot of names, they may have been used differently, but one thing is for sure. The pedometer will not count its days for it will stay for a long, long time.
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