Sporting Gear Must-Haves for Your iPod

The iPod can be combined with novel sporting gear and accessories to help you exercise more effectively and stay motivated while you work out. These items can be purchased separately and added to the iPod.

Apple Nike + iPod Sport Kit for the iPod Nano 1G, 2G, 3G. This kit includes a wireless 2.4 GHz sensor/transmitter and a receiver which work in tandem to record running/walking data. The sensor/transmitter contains an accelerometer that measures workout activity, and then transfers these data to the receiver. Other data are also transmitted, including pace, distance, time, and calories burned. During the workout, you can also select for real-time, spoken feedback to announce when you have achieved specific milestones, all while you continue listening to your iTunes music.

Once you finish your workout, you can transfer these data to your computer on either the iTunes site or nikeplus.com. From there, you can analyze your performance history, set new goals, or even challenge other Sport Kit users to a virtual race.

In order for the Apple Nike + iPod Sport Kit to work as intended, the sensor/transmitter needs to be inserted into specific Nike+ ("Nike Plus") branded shoes, while the receiver should be plugged into the iPod Nano. If you do not wish to purchase the Nike+ branded shoes, you can still make the kit work with other footwear, but you must manually alter those other pairs of running/walking shoes. The kit also does not come with replaceable batteries, meaning that it must be discarded when its batteries die.

Lilipod and Lili Mini for iPod and iPod Mini. If you are an avid swimmer, or if you simply want to protect your iPod while you go hiking, snowboarding, etc., then the LiliPod or Lili Mini is for you. The Lilipod consists of a 2-mm thick waterproof plastic case that is padded inside. Once placed into the Lilipod, the iPod will stay snug and dry. Furthermore, if the Lilipod is accidentally dropped into water, it will stay true to its brand name and actually float.

Even if you are not swimming or water rafting, the hard plastic shell of the Lilipod is still useful for shock absorbance from accidental drops. Furthermore, the case comes equipped with a clip that is designed to tenaciously grip to all manner of clothing and belts. The only disadvantage to the Lilipod is that you cannot adjust the controls of the iPod while it is situated in the case.

oPod for iPod. If you would like to utilize the controls on your iPod while it is encased in a protective and watertight shell, then the oPod may be the product for you. This item provides you with a clear membrane-like cover through which you can easily access the iPod's music selection, volume, and other controls. You can also access the iPod's headphone jack and remote port. Finally, the oPod is capable of being accessorized with items such as arm bands and belts.