The Nike + iPod app from Apple is available for the iPod Touch, 4th and 5th generation iPod Nano and the iPhone GS. The app is designed to track distance and calories using a sensor that is inserted into a running shoe.
It is recommended to use any Nike+ shoe as there is a cut-out section in the arch of the shoe that the sensor will fit nicely in. However, it is not necessary to use Nike+ shoes only. The sensor will work with most any shoes. The key is to find a comfortable place in the shoe so that the sensor will track a walking motion properly.
Along with the sensor the iPod Nano requires a small receiver that is attached to the bottom. The iPod Touch and iPhone GS do not require the receiver as it is built into these devices. Users can buy the Nike + iPod Sensor separate or the Nike + iPod Sport Kit which contains both the sensor and receiver from the Apple Store or any major sport stores.
Once the sensor is inserted and the receiver is in place (if necessary) all that is needed is to enable the Nike Fitness app from with the preferences on the iPod. The app will search for the sensor and sync up to the iPod. In the preferences, users can specify their weight and unit preference (miles or kilometres). No other configuration is necessary.
App Features
While running, jogging or walking the new Nike + iPod app will monitor progress each step of the way. The app itself contains four different ways to workout:
1. Basic: An open-ended workout allowing the user to go at their own pace. The app will track distance, time, pace and calories burned.
2. Time: A workout with a timed goal that allows the user to choose a specific time. At the end of the timed workout a summary will display of the workout.
3. Distance:A workout with a distance goal that allows the user to specify a distance to travel. At the end of the distance reach a summary will display of the workout.
4. Calorie: A workout with a calorie burning goal that allows the user to specify how many calories are to be burned during the workout. Again a summary of the workout will display afterwards.
There is also a calibration option to increase accuracy of the app as all walkers/runners have a different stride. To calibrate, a previous workout can be used. The app will specify how long the previous workout was according to its default calibration and then ask for the exact distance travelled. A treadmill or a track would be best used to calibrate the app.
The Nike + iPod app also provides a way to create custom workouts that are saved under the 'My Workouts' section. As well a 'History' section provides all data to previous workouts. Music playlists can be created to listen to while working out and a ‘PowerSong’ can be selected and played at any time to help push the runner to the next level of their workout.
Nike+ Website
If the app wasn’t enough to motivate users, the website brings all of the data from the iPod together in an attractive layout to set goals, compete with other runners or simply to track history. Every time iTunes syncs with the iPod, running data is sent to Nike+’s website. After the sync users will have the option to visit the site and see their workouts visually.
The website is designed for users to set personal goals such as burning a set amount of calories in four weeks. Challenges and Events with other Nike+ users are available to compete in. As well, there is much support in the Community Forums.
There is much more to the website that can be covered in this article. It is an excellent free extension of the app and well worth the time to explore and use.
Whether working out alone or with a partner the Nike + iPod app will be a great utility to any runner.
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