A case study of pedometer-recorded steps along the Himalayan mountain range

Abstract

Hiking may be identified as an alternative/adjunct to conventional walking. Within the context of ambulatory physical activity, pedometers are recognized as useful self-motivational and selfmeasurement tools to enhance healthy behavior. Consequently, pedometer data on varied gradients/uneven terrain are an important consideration with limited research. The aim of this study was to provide data on the volume and intensity of steps in five healthy adults on an 11-day hike along the Himalayan mountain range and to highlight some methodological considerations within this setting. Participants (39-70 years) wore a pedometer during daily walks. Step counts at two cadences were recorded: ‘aerobic’ (>100 steps/minute in bouts of at least 10 consecutive minutes) and ‘slower’ steps (<100 steps/minute). Average total steps recorded were 143 770 or 13 070 (SD 8 272) steps/day. Approximately one fifth of these steps were at the ‘aerobic’ cadence. Step counts on ascent days (days 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 and 8) ranged from 6 265 to 12 748 steps/day, with fewer steps on days 3 and 6, which were acclimatization days, involving shorter hikes. Step counts on descent days (days 9, 10 and 11) were much higher, owing to the easier downhill walking. The study provides novel pedometer data in a non-controlled setting involving a similar dose (in terms of mode, intensity, duration and frequency) of physical activity between individuals. The study also provides results that can be applied as a health promotion strategy whilst raising pertinent methodological implications for future consideration.

Keywords: Pedometer, physical activity, aerobic steps.