The Nike + iPod Sport Kit

The Nike + iPod Sport Kit includes a pedometer that fits inside Nike+ ready shoes and communicates wirelessly with your iPod nano – very clever, eh? The pedometer provides audible and visual readouts of your time (appear on your iPod), speed, and distance while listening to music or podcast workouts. Note: this system is meant to be used for walking or running workouts rather than total daily steps.

The Good

There’s no doubt that it is one of the best workout companions ever to have been made. What could be better than listening to music and at the same time receiving information (by voice feedback – optional) such as the total distance travelled and the number of calories burnt? Furthermore, the special Nike shoes are not a requirement.

The Bad

One of the main disadvantages is the fact that this is basically a “disposable product”, therefore the non-rechargeable, non-replaceable battery will eventually run out after approximately 1000 active hours of regular use (assuming you turn off the transmitter after each workout session). Another unnecessary expense: the Nike shoes retail at about $100-$120.