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Health & Fitness

From the Middle of the Pack: Tracking Performance, Part 2

Footpod devices that track your performance.

In a previous posting, I blogged about runner GPS devices.  The other common method for tracking your run is a foot (or shoe) pod.  Two products that offer this are Nike's Nike+ technology, and Garmin's foot pod.

The primary advantage of these devices is that they don't require a GPS satellite signal.  By initially calibrating the device to your stride, they can track your progress based on that information alone.  That means you can use one while running indoors. If you are like me and crank out a lot of indoor miles in the winter, this might be what you need to track your performance.

I don't have any personal experience with either of these devices, but my neighbor Tracy uses the Nike+ product, and she gave me her opinion of it.  She really likes it! Tracking her individual runs has helped motivate her to achieve her goals, including completing her first half marathon. She stores all her data at the nikeplus website, so she can look back and track how she is progressing toward her goals. Another nice feature is that the sensor will communicate with an iPod, giving real time feedback to the runner through the headphones, and transferring the data to the nikeplus website.

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One limitation of the Nike+ system is that it is designed specifically to fit inside certain models of Nike shoes. They of course want you to buy their shoes; but what if those models don't fit you well? I did a quick check online, and found that some people are using Nike+ with other shoes. You can purchase a small case that will connect the sensor to your laces. If you're on a budget, just use tape. If you use one of these tricks, you should recalibrate the sensor before taking off on your first run.

Where can you find the Nike+ system? Check with run stores that sell Nike products. The sensor retails for $19, and you can purchase a basic sportband that communicates with the pod for $59, or just use your iPod. Shoes will set you back about $100.

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The Garmin foot pad works by the same principle as the Nike+ technology. It is listed as a $70 accessory on the Garmin site, but I had to search their site for a few minutes before I found it. If you look there, click on the Shop tab and search on foot pod. The foot pod synches to your Garmin Forerunner GPS device, so before buying a foot pod, check your Forerunner manual to be sure your model is compatible with the foot pod.

One advantage I see in the Garmin device: it is designed to attach to your shoe laces instead of inside the shoe. You can easily attach it to your favorite brand of shoe without the need for additional accessories (or tape). For me, this would be a real advantage, since I always buy the same model of Mizuno shoe.

Where can you find the Garmin footpod?  Check with any store that sells Garmin Forerunner devices. So what's the best option? I think both systems are good options, and provide the same basic functionality. If you run with an iPod, Nike+ may be a good option for you. If you've already got a Garmin Forerunner, try the Garmin foot pad.

I'd love to hear feedback from runners who are using either of these devices.

See you in the middle of the pack.

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