A pedometer can cost just a few dollars but it can be an invaluable tool to get you motivated to exercise.

Pedometers are a great way to get and stay motivated in your walking routine. And they’re really simple to use, too. Read on to learn more.

What kind of pedometer should I get?
Like a lot of other gadgets, pedometers come in different sizes, brands, and varieties. On average they cost between $12 and $30, depending on how many "bells and whistles" they have.

You can get one that is very discreet if you'd like to wear it all day long or at work. Mine is a little larger than a 50-cent piece; my friend's resembles a pager.

A simple pedometer only records the number of steps you take based on your body's movement. There is a tiny apparatus within your pedometer that moves each time you move your hip in order to take a step.The pedometer "clicks over" with every step you take.

The fancier, digital pedometer models track the distance you've walked and calories burned. I didn't invest in one of those because over the years, trials have shown electronic calorie-burn counters are inaccurate.

Plus, they're more expensive. A simple step counter is enough to keep me motivated and you'll probably find that to be the case, too.