A step tracker is a great way to make exercise more fun and motivating. It allows you to measure how many steps you take throughout the day. Some trackers can even help you turn your workout into a game, setting unexpected goals to encourage you to exercise harder. These goals can include things like different paces, or performing a different exercise after completing a certain number of steps. Many step trackers are available as standalone devices, or they can be integrated into smartwatches and mobile devices. Researchers have found that adults who walk 8,000 steps a day have a lower risk of developing certain diseases. However, there is limited research on the safety of step trackers and their effectiveness. Using these devices may also lead to obsessive goal setting or excessive checking.