Want personal advice while running? You don’t need to hire someone special for that; it is possible with the electronic coach.
Apple and Nike have developed a method for this: the Nike+ iPod system (see: www.apple.com/nl/ipod/nike). It uses an Apple iPod nano or iPod touch, a pair of Nike+ shoes, and a Nike+ SportKit. A sensor in the sole of a Nike+ shoe is connected to a receiver in the iPod. As you run, you’ll hear how far, how long and how hard you’ve run, how many calories you’ve burned, and whether you’ve set a personal best. In between you can listen to music.
A (musicless) alternative is the Nike+ SportBand: instead of an iPod you use a wristband that registers all data and on which you can read pace, distance, time and calorie consumption.
Running with Nike+ starts with registering on the site www.nikeplus.com (in English). There you download a training program to your iPod or PC, set your training goal and enter your data for analysis after your run. You will receive personal advice by e-mail.
Another possibility to train with a virtual coach is miCoach, an initiative of Samsung and Adidas: running with a mobile phone.
miCoach is a combination of a mobile phone and a chest strap that measures the heart rate, plus possibly a pedometer. It is therefore not necessary to download files beforehand.
During training, you will hear via your mobile whether your performance matches your personal goal and training schedule, and you will receive specific advice. In between you can listen to music. Transfer the data to the miCoach site via USB or Bluetooth www.micoach.com (in English).
Is a (sports) inspection necessary?
If you have not run or exercised before, it is recommended. A sports medical examination can reveal defects in the cardiovascular system, muscles and joints.
Can I expect injuries?
Running is a taxing form of exercise. The vast majority of injuries are below the knee. The Achilles tendon is especially vulnerable. Novice runners often deal with shin injuries. Many of these overload injuries can be prevented by avoiding the asphalt as much as possible and walking on a soft surface (forest, dirt road). It is also important to wear shoes with sufficient shock absorption.
What is running good for?
Running increases endurance and can lower cholesterol. And it is a good remedy for stress. Those who run with the Nike + iPod system can put the iPod in a special (upper) bracelet.
Sources):
- Plus Magazine
