Solution 1 : Thanks to time

After so much time spent walking along the roads you probably know your pace according to the conditions you walked in. For example you know that you walk at a speed of 3.5mph on flat grounds without a bag, and at a speed of 2.5mph on a hilly path.

In the first case you can walk 1/2 mile in 8mn, in the second case 1/2 mile in 12mn.

That method is simple and easy to use if you walk at a regular pace : In particular it allows you to do something else than counting your footsteps.

Solution 2 : Counting your footsteps

If your walk isn’t regular, if you need to stop, if you need to have a precise estimate of the distance (when walking with a compass for example) you might want to count your footsteps.

People usually work with pairs of footsteps : your pair of footsteps is 5 feet long. You can remember that information : "My double footstep is 5 feet long" or "I need to do 60 double steps to walk 100 yards" But if you prefer to count in simple footsteps or pairs of double footsteps it’s up to you ! Do whatever you prefer !

You can also use a pedometer that counts your footsteps alone. In that case all you need to do is give to the device the length of your footstep.

To measure your footstep choose a distance of about 200 yards and count the number of double footsteps it took you to walk that distance. Do this several times then calculate the average value and divide the distance by the number of double footsteps. It should give you a good approximate value. Make sure you walk at a regular pace, do not try to walk faster than usual. Your pace on a long distance is often different to your pace on a short distance.

You can try the experience in various conditions (carrying a bag, running, going uphill...) All of these values are mean values that you can use afterwards according to your walking conditions.

Do not forget to report these values in your personal data sheet.