Nike+iPod

I've been doing a lot of reading up on the Nike+iPod collaboration, specifically as it relates to the technology used to track mileage, pace, and calories. The device seems legit and based on my test run last night, I think this little gadget will become my new best friend.

Luckily, I already have a nano so all I needed to purchase was the sensor that attaches to your shoe that sends a signal to a sensor attached to the nano. The sensors all together were only $30. I didn't splurge for the Nike shoes that have a spot notched out in the soles to hold the sensor. Instead, I figured out a way to rig it to my shoes. That is, with a sturdy piece of tape...for now [I'm the modern day MacGyver]. I'm betting someone will come out with a holder of some sorts that you can clip to shoes other than Nike. That way all runners can enjoy the benefits of the new technology without being forced into buying the Nike shoes.

All in all, I give it a 9 on a 10 point scale. I tested the accuracy on a 1.4 mile treadmill run...but by the time I got everything configured my accuracy was shot. The real test will be tomorrow on our 12-miler where I know the miles are accurate.

At the end of 1.4 miles, nano said I finished in 8:56 averaging a 6 minute 30 second pace. Yes, really. Now, I was running fast...but I don't think that fast. That's Kenyan fast. So, again, while I don't know if that's completely accurate...we'll test it tomorrow.

After my workout I synched it back up to my computer as I would do if I were wanting to upload more songs to the nano. My workout information was sent directly to nikeplus.com where I can keep track of every run, set and track goals, and compete with other runners using the same device.

Wish me luck on the 12-miler tomorrow--I'm not so confident about how it will go. I know I sound bi-polar with about every other run being either fantastic or horrible...nothing in the middle. But really, how can a 5 or 6-miler be more difficult than a 10-miler? Can someone explain that to me?