Omron HJ-112 Digital Premium Pedometer

Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Rating: 9/10

Product Features

• Measures steps, aerobic steps & minutes, calories, and distance
• Can be used on a belt, in a bag, or in your pocket
• 7 day memory storage
• Time of day display

Product Specs 

• Comes with strap, clip for strap, holder, screwdriver, and instruction manual
• Accurate within 5%
• Runs on a lithium battery with 6 month average life
• 1 year warranty

Disadvantages

• Shorter battery life than other Omron models

Review

The Omron HJ-112 is not only the most popular pedometer sold today, but it's arguably one of the best as well.  In fact, Consumer Reports has named it the top model for 2008.  By combining some nice extra features and making it very easy to use, Omron has created one very versatile pedometer.

One of the most popular features of the HJ-112 pedometer is that it doesn't require the user to clip it to their belt for it to function, because of the unique dual sensor technology.  This means that while it can still be clipped to a belt, this pedometer can also be used by placing it in your pocket or carrying it in a bag with you, such as a purse or backpack.  Few pedometers are capable of doing this, and since not everyone is always going to be wearing a belt, especially when they go out walking or jogging, this is much appreciated.  Best of all, though, is that it is accurate no matter what method is used.  Indeed, Omron guarantees accuracy within 5% points for any of these methods.

Another great thing about this pedometer is that it differentiates between moderate steps and aerobic steps.  Aerobic steps are defined as steps taken after 10 minutes of continuous walking, with the first 10 minutes being considered moderate steps.  Not only will the Omron HJ-112 pedometer record these numbers separately, but they will be used to calculate how many calories have been burned.  Additionally, a seven day history will be recorded with all of this information.  For anyone walking to lose weight or get in better shape, this information will be invaluable.  It's recommended that these numbers be recorded for anyone on a diet, since a record of calories lost is crucial for this purpose.

There are some other nice features on the Omron HJ-112 pedometer as well.  The LCD display is easy to read, and the button interface is simple and intuitive.  Also, all the accessories that are needed are included.  The package even includes a small screwdriver that is needed to change the battery.  However, if there is a downside to this pedometer, it's that the 6 month battery life is only half as long as most other models, so be sure to stock up on lithium batteries.  Still, this is a great pedometer, and it provides one of the best values available.