Hear the burn: Nike and Apple team up
New gadgets to help you keep track of keeping trim.
By Ryan Keigher [Contributor]
I always get asked how come I can run so long and so far and not get so bored. For some reason I would say it’s fun and I just can. However there are ways that you can make running a little more enjoyable, whether it is something simple or some a little more technological.
Let’s face it; running alone can get a little boring. I do not mind going alone because I can clear my head from all the work and school frustrations. But, sometimes I find it boring and working in a running store has helped me find ways to make it a little more enjoyable.
Everyone knows about using an iPod to run, but how about using it as an actual running tool itself. Nike teamed up with Apple to create something different and unique, and it expanded into more than just music.
Check out the Nike+ iPod system. This system only works with the Nano, iPod touch and the iPhone 3GS due to its technology. What it is designed to do is work with an accelerometer that attaches to your Nike+ running shoe (and if you don’t have a Nike+ shoe, you can get a third party piece to hold it) and while you are running it calculates the distance you are running, speed and pace, time and the calories you are burning while you are running. A simple system only retails for $40.
Now if you do not want to listen to music or do not own those Apple products, Nike does offer the Nike+ Sportband. Much like the iPod device, instead of hearing how you run, you can see how you run on a simple watch that displays your distance, pace, time and calories burned. Both products connect to the Internet and will graph your run. This system retails for $80.
Nike has more in store for consumers later, but they won’t tell me what it is. Other companies are starting to catch up with Nike and Apple. Adidas launched their MiCoach, which offers a heart rate monitor and a speed and distance monitor which is wired through any musical device. Heart rate monitors can also add a little spice to your running, and sometimes a speed and distance monitor is an available option. My pet peave though, pulse readers are not the same as heart rate monitors; no heart rate strap means no real heart rate.
If you want to run but get bored while doing it, explore these options. But from my experience of using all the devices, the Nike+ system is the easiest and most interesting to use. Happy running.
