Song Of The Day: Keep Hope Alive - Artist: The Crystal Method

One hobby I enjoy is running. I even went as far as running the Marine Corps Marathon in 2002 with a time just under 5 hours–not a “blow-out” time but I was happy with it (see mugshot for running man “portrait”). :) During my runs there are typically two essentials: my iPod nano and a pair of Mizuno WaveRider running shoes. After this past week, and a few trial runs, I have a couple of new essentials: a pair of Nike+ (plus) shoes and a Nike + iPod Sport Kit.

I have to say I was a bit leery over the new Nike+ shoes. I have never preferred them for long-distance running. During my ‘02 marathon I used a great pair of Asics shoes and, as mentioned, I like my current Mizuno’s. My wife, who has three marathons under her belt in the past few years, swears by Saucony. However, after both of us tried on a pair of Nike+ shoes and after being lured by the iPod nano Sport Kit, we both decided to give the setup a try. As a note, I bought the Nike Zoom Plus shoes and my wife bought the Nike Shox Navina+ shoes. The Air Zoom Moire+ shoes are in all the current advertisements.

The Sport Kit uses a small device that fits within the sole of any Nike+ shoe. Furthermore, there is a “receiver” that connects to the bottom of the iPod nano (i.e., about the size of a stamp). Although most will be ready to go within a couple of minutes, my nano required the 1.2 version of the software from the iPod Software Updater. Afterwards, I was calibrating my iPod nano receiver with my shoes and was ready to go. I’ve clocked 15 miles in the past three days and the device does a great job of tracking speed, pace, distance, calories, and total time during the use of treadmills and during outdoor runs. Moreover, it allows one to integrate songs within the workout. For example, one may designate a “power song” that can be played during times when an extra boost may be needed. Also, there is a voice, male or female, that provides “feedback” for distance updates, etc. For example, during one run the female voice announced mile marks and proclaimed at the end, “Congratulations. You’ve completed your goal of 5 miles.” Also, there are voice recordings of Paula Radcliffe and Lance Armstrong (i.e., they were both a part of the marketing) that congratulate you for beating your personal bests for the mile, distance, etc. They introduce themselves after the workout has ended; the summary concludes with: “This is [so and so]. Congratulations. You’ve…”

Upon synching with iTunes the device updates workout information on the Nike site: nikeplus.com. Although the site is still in progress, it allows exercisers to compare results with others and to create challenges and goals.

I don’t have any major complaints, but I did notice that the calculated run-distance was different between the iPod and the treadmill by about a 10th of a mile. The iPod indicated that the distance had been accomplished sooner. This may be good or bad depending upon how one is feeling at the time :). Also, I hope in the future there are more options for the “voice feedback.” I didn’t mind the milestone announcements, but at the end of a distance the “400 meters left, 300 meters left” can get in the way of a good sprint and a rockin’ song. The only other option for now is to disable the voice feedback to avoid this. Perhaps in the future there will be even more features incorporating other feedback (e.g., water or “energy goo” recommendations, etc.). Concerning the long-term life expectancy, there isn’t a rechargeable battery for the shoe broadcaster, which could cause problems later. For now, I guess one could hit the sleep button on the device in an attempt to conserve battery life. Lastly, I wasn’t ecstatic about having to buy a new iPod arm-band (approximately $30) because the nano and new receiver would not fit in the one I had, not earth shattering but the cost does start to add up.

I’m not sure if I’ll continue to use the Nike shoes during all runs yet, but the new combo definitely adds a nice, new dimension to the workout routine. If you have an iPod nano and are in the market for a new pair of exercise shoes, then you may want to consider them. BTW the shoes aren’t necessarily required, but it makes carrying the device convenient. For another review check out CNET: CNET Review. If you do and you want a virtual running partner give me a holler. Also, if you’re running the Marine Corps Marathon this year let me know. I’m currently registered. Maybe we can start the “it’s a marathon not a sprint” campaign. :)

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