Nike + iPod

A fitness system that involves a Nike shoe communicating wirelessly to an iPod nano, Apple's new Nike + iPod is an excellent digital pedometer that is guaranteed to get you up and running.

Consisting of a small adaptor that attaches to an iPod nano (this won't work with any other iPods) and a tiny pedometer that fits inside a shoe, the Nike + iPod also requires a pair of Nike+ running shoes. Beneath the sole of every pair of Nike+ shoes is a small hole that the Nike + iPod pedometer fits into. The pedometer wirelessly communicates with the iPod nano, with real time walking or running statistics presented on the display. Information supplied includes distance travelled, time elapsed and speed.

To fully take advantage of the Nike + iPod, you'll need an iPod nano with the latest firmware update (version 1.2), the latest version of iTunes (6.0.5 or higher) and finally, Internet access to analyse your performance at Nikeplus.com.

When you plug the Nike + iPod receiver into the nano for the first time, a new Nike + iPod option appears in the menu. A new workout can be started, or previous results viewed. The device also requires the users weight to be entered to ensure accurate results.

The Nike + iPod is very user friendly, mainly thanks to clear voice prompts, which are played at milestones. For example, "fifteen minutes elapsed in this workout", or "200 metres to go". Pressing the select button gives you a full voice status of your workout including time and distance elapsed and current pace. The Nike + iPod voice plays over the music, which fades crisply into the background. The voice can also be changed from male to female, or turned off altogether should you wish.

The Nike + iPod also has a feature called PowerSong, a motivational song that you can choose from your playlist. This is activated during a run by holding down the select button on your iPod and is designed to give you a lift when you feel as though you may be struggling to complete your workout.

The pedometer doesn't have a replaceable battery, so Nike advise you to remove it from your shoe should you not plan to use it for an extended period of time. The battery should last approximately 1600 kilometres, at which time you have to purchase a new unit. Thankfully, the asking price is reasonable, so this shouldn't be an issue for most users.

Results can be analysed on the Nike+ Web site once the data is transferred to the site by connecting the iPod nano to a PC or Mac. A number of intuitive graphs, tables and comparison charts are available. Goals can be set through the site, and online trophies are awarded for breaking personal best records. The best feature is the comparison engine, which allows you to easily track your progress to see whether you are improving, or how close you are to your goals.