How to check your step frequency
This morning, I decided to check my step frequency. You can determine your step frequency by counting the times your left foot hits the ground during 1 minute. ( Or your right foot. Whichever you prefer). I took the egg timer and set it at 1 minute. After a few false starts when I counted both feet, I got the hang of it. One, two, three, I counted every time my left foot landed on the dirth path that leads to the kids' school. I repeated the process 3 times to make sure I got it right.
My step frequency is….
And my step frequency is: 80. Unfortunately that's not very good. In fact the recommended step frequency is 90! Bummer! So I decided to aim for 90 steps per minute. I almost succeeded. I got to a step frequency of 87. But it did not feel very nice, and I was definitely not in my fat burning zone.
Having fun with your step frequency
I did however have fun this morning! Usually I like to listen to some music during my run. But this morning I was too busy counting my steps and thinking about my step frequency. If your step frequency is like mine, way below the recommended 90 steps per minute, it can be a great motivational tool. You could try for 85 for example, and then slowly work your way up to 90.
What's your step frequency?
I know what my run cadence is, is that even the same thing (how many steps per minute aka spm). And it varies between 170 spm to 180 spm. I usually count it every month or so to keep me in check.
ReplyDeleteInteresting. I wonder if a decrease in step frequency can lead to overstriding? There must be a happy medium.
ReplyDeleteI am a mom who is "barely thinking about running" - lol! Still, I enjoyed your post. Thanks so much for sharing with the Let's Get Real party this week.
ReplyDeleteI just started walking and strength training, this is so informative. thanks! Happy Staurday Sharefest
ReplyDelete