Modern living has become much more technology based and sedentary,
with virtual entertainment being the most popular pastime of choice.
This has obvious effects upon health and the world has startling
increasing obesity levels. Although technology is not to blame, rather
than the people who choose to use it, more could be done to integrate
technological entertainment into a more active lifestyle. The iPod is
redressing this balance with the addition to its available accessories
of the Nike iPod Sports Kit.
Research has consistently
shown that listening to music improves mood, and the most recent
findings suggest that music actually gives a cognitive boost. Listening
to music during exercise improves most people`s performance in a number
of ways. Music provides an encouraging rhythm which synchronizes with
the movement during exercise, and which helps push further. It also
distracts from event. The iPod has already helped many sports
enthusiasts to enjoy their regime more fully, but now the iPod can
offer some real assistance.
The Nike iPod Sports Kit
consists of two elements; a music player and a pedometer. These two
items have been important for the runner for a long time, but the iPod
version has many additional features. The device works as follows; a
sensor fits into the sole of a specially designed Nike + shoe. The
receiver is plugged into the iPod Nano which has the battery power, the
memory and all required software installed. The sensor detects footfall
like any other pedometer, and sends the information through transmitted
radio waves. Each device has its own unique code and so even if there a
few runners using the iPod accessory, only your information will be
received. Another clever feature is that different sensors can be used
on a single devie, so more than one person can benefit.
The
real beauty of the Nike iPod Sports Kit is the extent of the
information transmitted. It sends to the device the number of calories
burned, but also calculates speed using equations which consider foot
fall and the amount of time the foot is spent on the floor. Other
information provided to the mp3 mp4 player device includes distance and
comparative statistics to previous performances. Goals can be set on
the software and the results will state how your performance compared
to your goals. In addition to this, the device allows you to create
play lists for your workout.
Although the level of
information is excellent, it is easy to read whilst working out. The
iPod Sports Kit come with a click wheel which acts as a control whilst
running. The information is not just stored on the screen, but is also
provided by a computerized voice system. The device is easy to use
overall, with the required software already installed in the latest
models, with the software available to download for older iPod`s
through the online update feature.
Once the workout is
complete, the statistics can be stored on a computer. There is then the
option to join a huge online iPod community where information uploaded
from the device can be shared with other runners. This can be helpful
for goal setting and to set challenges. Running enthusiasts can compare
information, and even share routes with an innovative mapping function.
This additional feature of services gives an excellent social dimension
to an often lone sport. It is amazing that this can be done online.
Overall
the benefits of the Nike iPod Sports Kit include advanced equipment
which combines two important elements for sport; music and information.
The device is lightweight, compact and the software is top of the
range. It helps improves health, through enjoyment and factual
assistance, and is available for all users despite the age of their
model.
The only real disadvantage is the fact that there
is much apparatus needed which can be costly. The basic requirements
are an iPod Nano, the Sports Kit and the Nike + shoes. Although other
shoes can be bought that have a pouch for the sensor, these use a
different angle so do not achieve the same results. The other point
worth noting is that the iPod Sports kit requires the user to have a
good understanding of computers to get the full benefit.
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