- Analyze Your Life Patterns Using Jawbone's Up Band
- Let Your iPhone Communicate with Your Sneakers to Help You Stay Fit
- Monitor Your Heart Rate During Workouts
- Apps to Help Improve Your Fitness and Eating Habits
- Other Accessories Useful for FitnessMinded iPhone Users
Let Your iPhone Communicate with Your Sneakers to Help You Stay Fit
Several years ago, Apple teamed up with Nike to develop an app for the iPhone and iPod Touch that actually works in conjunction with your Nike sneakers. Whether you work out in a gym or outside on your own, consider investing in the optional Nike + iPod Sport Kit ($29.00) and using it with your iPhone.
This kit includes a sensor that interfaces with Nike+ sneakers, as well as a specialized app that will serve as your personal workout coach, trainer, and fitness music DJ.
The Nike + iPod Sport Kit works with all iOS 5 devices (including the iPhone) and is perfect for runners and joggers because it will track your distance, pace, and calorie burn in real time, while allowing you to listen to your favorite workout music. You can also connect an optional Polar Wear Link + Heart Rate Monitor to track your heart rate during a workout.
The Nike + iPod Sport Kit is compatible with many popular cardio machines (treadmills, elliptical machines, stair steppers, and stationary bikes) found in participating 24 Hour Fitness locations and other gyms. All your workout related data can be synced with your primary computer, where you can track your progress graphically.
If you're serious about fitness, this app and iPhone accessory combination can help keep your workouts on target, while keeping you motivated and entertained. Meanwhile, the Nike + GPS app ($1.99) allows you to set running or jogging goals, map out your runs, and track your progress.
A computerized voice will cut into the music you're listening to during a run or jog in order to provide real-time feedback and progress reports. You can also view your current location on a map that highlights your preplanned route.
Through the Nikeplus.com website, users of this app are encouraged to share running routes with others and promote their own fitness-related accomplishments.