BOSTON -- A pedometer is one of the least expensive tools you can purchase to heighten your awareness of your daily activity and to motivate yourself to become more active -- one step at a time.

The simple device clips to your waistband above your hip and counts your steps throughout the day. Keep a record of your average day, realizing that approximately 2,000 steps equal one mile. Even though many experts recommend 10,000 steps a day, this may seem overwhelming to you as you begin. Instead, try to increase your own average by 100 steps a day.

Remember a little bit is better than nothing, and slow gradual increases in daily activity level will soon add up to a healthier you.

Pedometers can be purchased at your local sporting goods store for approximately $15 to $30, depending on extras you might want to include.