So, having had little to zero motivation for running around the estate since I’ve moved out from hall, I decided to put in a little investment for the greater good. The Nike+ iPod Sport Kit promises to revolutionize the way you run, and I thought it was a good way to add in a little motivation for my running with the prospects of being able to visualize my runs in a really geeky way.

The easy thing was walking into iShop or EpiCentre @ Orchard or any Nike store for that matter to get the kit. At $55, the kit comes with a sensor which you attach to your shoe. The receiver goes into your iPod Nano which transmits your run data from the sensor and stores it directly into your iPod, which you can then upload them onto the Nike+ Website.

Getting the iPod Nano, unfortunately, wasn’t as easy. Having already owned a 4th Generation iPod Photo and currently using Andrew’s iPod Video, I obviously had no other need for a brand new iPod Nano. I settled for a 2G 4GB iPod Nano to do the job. For those who have a 1G and hear rumours that it doesn’t work with the Nike+, fret not. The Nike+ is made to work with all generations iPod Nano.

If paying another $200 for a pair of Nike+ shoes seems like the single greatest obstacle to getting started, fret not. While it may be recommended to use the kit with a Nike+ running shoe, there are plenty of ways to attach the sensor to any pair of shoe at the same time achieving rather accurate results. The Marware Sportsuit Sensor+ offers what could be one of the most secure way to attach the sensor to your laces. Other alternatives include the SwitchEasy Runaway, and what could be the cutest pouch ever, the Shoe Pouch. For the minimalist, you could even attach two pieces of velcro to both your sensor and the tongue of your shoe, secure it with laces, and you’re (probably) good to go.

If you’re the type who doesn’t like to hold on to anything while running, there are plenty of options for armbands, pouches, and built in pockets for iPod (from the Nike+ Apparel range). I managed to get a good deal from EpiCentre who by the way, is having a sale right now as we speak. I got myself a DLO Action Jacket which doubles up as a case when you’re not running with it. It features an adjustable armband which works fine on my wrist and while snug, isn’t too difficult to remove or insert. The problem is that the Action Jacket probably wasn’t made for the Nike+ in mind so securing the iPod with the velcro flap would be almost impossible. However, the snug fit ensures that even without the velcro flap your iPod stays where it should be.

Apart from the cost (which is very little if you already own an iPod Nano), setting up and using the kit is easy. Just attach the receiver to your iPod, attach the sensor to your shoe and you’re ready to calibrate and use it for running and/or walking. The Nike+ features various programs for you to customize your workout to, much like the kinds you see on a treadmill at the gym. You can programme it to keep to a timeframe, distance or even for calorie burning. There are voice sensors which provide feedback for your workout, including a Powersong feature, which allows you to select your favourite workout tune to. Otherwise, you can also choose to stick to a Basic workout, running to your selected playlist while the Nike+ keeps track of the distance and time during your run.

Once you’re ready to upload your runs, all you have to do is to plug in your iPod to your computer, much like how you would sync your iPod and iTunes does the rest. Your runs would be uploaded to the Nike+ website (which you would need an account for), and you’re done.

While it may seem like a hassle to have to connect to a website to see your runs, it is unfortunately the only way so far to track progress. The Nike+ website however, makes it all worth it. Once on the Java-based site, you are able to compete against other people, join other users in making a resolution, set your own targets and contribute your own run route to the Map section. Likewise, it also allows you to check out the routes others have taken, together with information about that route.  For the really geeky, widgets (for both PC and Mac) are available for download. There are currently two available, one for goals and the other for challenges.

I would say that the Nike+ kit makes it easy to run. From the geek’s point of view, its the fact that you can actually customize and upload your progress that makes the entire process more appealing and motivating. For the more economic minded, think of it as getting more mileage out of your iPod, and at the end of the day if you still feel unmotivated after buying the Nike+ Sport Kit, think of the amount of money spent on accessories just to get started. It may all be worth it.