If you are a jogger (or someone who needs a bit of a nudge to become one), then you’ll be very interested in this. Apple doesn’t partner its iPod with external companies lightly, but the Nike+ system fits right into iPod’s ‘it just works’ ethos.
The kit is comprised of a small pedometer which fits into the soles of special Nike+ compatible shoes and another dongle which plugs into the base of an iPod nano (gen1 or gen2). On plugging in the latter, a Nike+ iPod menu magically appears. From this you can start a ‘Basic’ workout which simply plays your music and measures how far you run. You can also choose a distance to run and be given voice prompts regarding distance throughout, or you can choose how many calories you want to burn (after entering your height and weight).
Nike claims the system is 92% accurate out of the box though you can spend time calibrating it if you choose. We were very impressed with the default settings which were easily accurate enough for our needs. At the end of (and during) your run you’re told how far you’ve gone, how many calories are burned and what your average time per kilometre (or mile) is. You can also select a Power Song, which you can jump to when needed.
The shoe sensor uses a piezoelectric accelerometer to determine the amount of time your foot spends on the ground. You can’t simply tie it to non-compatible shoes as the sensor must feel the shock of each step by being under the sole. The two sensors communicate via Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) with the shoe sensor powering itself on and off depending on movement. The battery is not replaceable and battery life depends on usage. External tests suggest it will last around 1000 hours of continuous use.
But the killer feature is Nike’s companion website. Setting up an account is free and when you’ve done that workout, data will automatically upload when synchronised with iTunes. You’re able to view graphical displays of your running and compare times with your best. You can also set yourself goals in terms of distance or calorie burning and even challenge other people. Specialised Nike+ workouts are also appearing on iTunes.
It adds a whole new dimension to running, without any complicated setting up. The only real downside is the limited compatibility with dedicated accessories so while the kit is cheap its own right, you’ll need a nano and special shoes which can seriously bump up the price. We also recommend purchasing the Nike+ Sport Armband ($50) which offers a washable, waterproof way of carrying your nano — ours fell out of our pocket far too many times.
All in all there’s little to fault it, but getting the most out of it can be expensive.
