Nike+ iPod Sport Kit review

Trainers in an IT mag, what's that about?

Well Apple and Nike have worked together to produce a sports running kit for your iPod. The kit consists of a transmitter that fits into your trainer and a receiver that plugs into your iPod. The transmitter is a small lozenge that you insert into a special niche beneath the insole of compatible Nike+ trainers. You could just carve a hole under the insole of a normal running shoe, but this would damage the shoe and isn't something serious runners will want to do. The transmitter is only compatible with the iPod Nano and requires the latest firmware and the latest version of iTunes.

The adapter and firmware update add a Nike+ option to your iPod menu. Using the Nike+ option, you can set up workouts for yourself based on the distance you want to run, the time you want to run for or the calories you want to burn. Your iPod then gives you regular spoken updates on how you're doing, telling you when you reach your halfway mark, when you've only got a few minutes or a short distance left, for instance. And, of course, you can choose which music to run to. You can even specify a "power song" - something to motivate you when you're flagging. Once your finished, you can upload the details of your run to the Nike+ website, which tracks your performance over time, displaying it as a series of graphs. You can also use the website to meet other runners in your area, set yourself goals and even create your own virtual running club. The trainers themselves cost around £65 if bought separately and are well-cushioned and comfortable to run in. Apple is also selling custom "running mixes" from its iTunes music store.

When we first heard that Apple and Nike were making talking trainers, we were prepared to be cynical. In the end, we found this gadget very useful. Knowing exactly how far you've run, the pace you ran at and the calories you burnt, as well as your performance over time, is a great way to keep yourself motivated. The iPod kit itself only costs £20, but the shoes to go with it will set you back £65. The iPod nano isn't part of the kit - you'll need your own.

Author: Karl Wright