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Words by Larisa Redins

November 2007

Who says that iPods are solely for listening to music? Today, iPods are catering to an especially active group of individuals - namely people with an interest in all things fitness- related. From cardio to strength training to skiing, all types of active lifestyles are well represented. Whether you are hunting for the ultimate workout software or the newest iPod- related fitness gear, you will not be disappointed by what's available in today's market.

SportCommand

Want to listen to your iPod while snowboarding? No problem! You can now control your iPod wirelessly within 50 feet with this innovative product from Belkin. Called the SportCommand, this system allows you to place the fabric remote control on your arm, and store the iPod where you please - in a pocket or backpack, for instance. The SportCommand is completely durable, rip-free, and weather-resistant -- letting you snowboard (or hike, ski, bike or whatever...) while you listen to your favorite tunes. Furthermore, the device features large buttons so that you do not even have to take off your gloves to adjust the controls. The SportCommand retails at $79.99 and is available at Belkin.com.

Nike + iPod

By now, you have probably heard of the Nike + iPod Sport Kit. However, what exactly is this product?

The iPod Sport Kit consists of a wireless sensor and receiver. The sensor and receiver work with your iPod Nano and Nike+ shoes to give you instant feedback on your running workout. You also can then track your running performance on a PC or Mac. How does all of this work exactly? You simply insert the sensor inside the built-in pocket of the corresponding Nike+ shoe and plug the receiver into your iPod Nano.

Next, start your walk or run! The sensor automatically sends information to your iPod Nano, and tracks details that include your pace, distance traveled, and calories burned. All finished with your workout? Simply log on to your computer and transfer the data to iTunes and nikeplus.com and presto! You have access to your present workout data and workout history.

You can also set running or walking goals - and most fun of all - you can even challenge other runners to a race. The iPod Sport Kit costs $29.00 and is available at , and at other authorized resellers. The Nike+ shoe is sold separately.

The Shoe Pouch

Want to take advantage of the iPod Sport Kit, but don't use the specific Nike+ shoe that this product is meant to be used with? No worries! Grantwood Technologyhas developed an item called The Shoe Pouch just for people like you.

The Shoe Pouch ensures that the sensor in the iPod Sport Kit will transmit accurate data as you work out. Neoprene, a highly stretchable fabric, envelops the sensor, and provides a snug fit. All you do is simply attach the "pouch" though your shoelaces and you are ready to work out and record your running data like the pros.The Shoe Pouch costs $5.99 and is available at ShoePouch.com.

iWorkout

iWorkout by Helmes Innovation soffers some interesting software for a relatively inexpensive price. Offering tips from certified personal trainers, this iPod software features more than 100 workout videos and fitness guides with images. Some of the exercise routines include cardio routines, free weight exercises, core exercises, Swiss ball exercises, core exercise routines, stretches and more.

The software even provides information on proper nutrition. It is both Mac and Windows compatible and works well with all iPods with color screens. This software costs $19.95 and is available at .

iTrainer

Looking for a virtual personal trainer? You've found just that with iTrainer.

iTrainer was created in 2005 by a group of Australian personal trainers. Through their own self-proclaimed trial-and-error methods, they have come up with a series of audio exercise routines for both beginners and the more advanced fitness enthusiast. The fitness professionals provide step by step guidance on both technique and workout intensity.

Each workout is synced with music from iTunes automatically when you download the programs to your iPod. Furthermore, iTrainer sends out motivational e-mails and SMS reminders and even offers you the option of recording your fitness progress through an online workout calendar. The cost of iTrainer starts at $29.95 Australian per month and is available at .

PumpOne

PumpOne Trainers provide a variety of different workouts that you can download to your iPod from their website. PumpOne Trainers workouts usually last about four to six weeks and can have up to three different workouts included with them. With PumpOne, you also have the ability to choose the type of music you want to listen to so that you can listen to the beats that truly motivate you. Right now, the company has a variety of different workouts available at different skill levels in areas that include yoga, pilates, body conditioning, and other specialized routines. In the future, PumpOne plans to include even more specialized workouts that will cover activities such as skiing, tennis, golf, post-natal exercise, and even exercises for seniors. These workouts range in price from about $9 to $49 and are available at .

MARINA's Workouts

Looking for something a little bit different? Geared mainly at women, MARINA's workouts provide you with both an audio workout program and a motivational pep talk in their innovative audio products.

Created by a person who has personally battled weight issues her entire life, these audio workouts promise to be different from other audio workouts that are currently on the market. She presently offers more than 100 different workouts that you can download to your iPod. The walking and aerobic workouts offer a 126 to 150 beats per minute range while the Body Sculpting and Stretch workouts are about 90 beats per minute - all with original music. She also offers downloads that are solely of a motivational nature. These audio downloads are available at and start at $0.99 per download.

TrainWithMeOnline.com

TrainWithMeOnline.com is a website that offers exercise videos, made by certified trainers, that you can download to your iPod. The best part is that all the exercise videos are free to download to your iPod once you register for free.

However, if you wish to have a personalized workout routine that is made just for you, you do have the option of paying for a more customized routine. Some of the exercise videos cover complete workouts routines while other videos offer instructions on exercises that target the abs, buttocks, biceps, triceps, back, core, and legs. The site also offers information on nutrition and recipes, and even has a discussion forum.

To download exercise videos at , there is no cost. The personalized workouts range in price from $24.99 to $99.99.

iAmplify.com

iAmplify.com is yet another website where you can obtain both audio and video workouts from a variety of personal trainers. Some of these fitness professionals are well- known experts in their fields while others have worked with the likes of Sting, Drew Barrymore, and Heather Graham. Some of the fitness areas covered include yoga, pilates, running, power walking, general cardio, strength training, total body sculpting, general sports, and cycling.

The programs are available in a variety of levels from beginner to more advanced training programs. Besides workout programs, you also have the opportunity to download programs that cover health, nutrition, weight reduction hypnosis, meditation, and self-improvement. The workouts are available for instant download at iAmplify.com and range in price from free to about $30.