Keeping the count

I've been counting cards for a couple of months now and am wondering all the methods you people use to remember what number you are at. I've read some posts below about that foot thing, but would be glad to hear more.

The one I use right now might sound really lame but here it is:

I keep my left hand between my legs and when the count is negative, I count with my fingers by touching the chair I am sitting on. If the count is positive, I count with my fingers by touching my right thigh. (If we are at -4, I would have 4 fingers touching my chair seat)

I know it sucks lol, that's why I'm asking for better suggestions. Thank you.

I just keep it in the back of my head, and play it over a couple times to remember it. I don't even bother remembering it if it's 0- that helps. Sometimes I use my chips- X chips means a certain count, etc.

eventually you won't need any markers.

In order not to get mixed with card totals, especially if the dealer announces them, I keep the count in a foreign language (or my mother tongue in case I play abroad).
The local language is always reserved for checking card totals.This is essential to avoid being cheated with wrong settlements.

Francis Salmon

ive heard of using your fingers to keep a side count of aces but never for keeping the actual count.you should be able to do it in your head.if you cant keep the count in your head then you are not ready for the tables.you need plenty more practice. when you count say M1,2..for minus or P1,2,3..for plus1,2,3.dont say minus or plus.it helps alot.the last thing that should keep you busy is counting with your fingers and toes.you have enough crap to worry about with the heat and peeking at others cards.practic,practice....

I find that when I use 10 to represent 0, I dont have to deal with negative numbers (most of the time). Improved my counting ability immeasurably.