Of all the exercise equipment found in your local sporting goods store, the best bargain of all may be the smallest and least expensive. The lowly pedometer is often overlooked in the quest to find the perfect piece of exercise equipment to take off those excess pounds. But, the pedometer may have more calorie burning power than you might think. Here are some of the healthy, fat blasting benefits of owning a pedometer:

It Helps You Burn More Calories

Numerous studies have shown that people who wear a pedometer on a daily basis take extra steps, in some cases up to 10,000 steps per day! And it only takes a few extra steps each day to add up to weight loss over time. It seems just by strapping on this handy little device, you become more aware of the need to move.

It Serves as a Constant Motivator

The simple act of strapping on a pedometer can be a strong motivating force for movement. Knowing that every step is being monitored and recorded gives you the incentive to take a few extra steps here and there throughout the day. A pedometer serves as your own personal step trainer, reminding you to walk a little faster and a little farther.

It Can Cause You to Change the Way You Do Things

By giving you an objective record of how many steps you use to perform a particular task, it can allow you to make adjustments that will burn more calories. For example, if you find you're taking too few steps during work hours, you can adjust your schedule to allow you to walk during lunch, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or take the long way through the building. These small changes can result in significant weight loss over time.

It's Portable

If you travel for business a pedometer is one piece of exercise equipment that will easily fit in your suitcase. Once you reach your destination there's no need to find a gym. Simply take several brisk walks around your hotel each day using your pedometer to monitor your progress. It's exercise at its simplest and most enjoyable.

It's Inexpensive

Surprisingly enough, a decent pedometer can cost as little as ten dollars at stores such as Target and Walmart. Contrast this to the cost of a gym membership you may never use or home exercise equipment that takes up space in your home or apartment. A pedometer is an inexpensive, go anywhere piece of exercise equipment that won't break the bank.

If you want to get into shape and can spare as little as $10.00, a pedometer can help you lose those excess pounds. Why not give it a try?