Fitness TV’s Scott Brant tries out the Nike+ Sportband

Running is our passion here at Fitness TV so when the chaps at Nike asked if we wanted to try out the Sportband we were more than happy to oblige.

So how does it work?

Good question. As far as we can tell the Nike+ SportBand is a wristwatch style device that links to a motion sensor in your shoe to track distance, pace and calorie data while you run….or walk if you are feeling lethargic. The watch’s detachable USB link plugs into your computer straight after your run and relays information to nikeplus.com. This then allows you to analyse various aspects of your run such as progress, pace, calories and distance. You can then set yourself training goals, and even access personalised programs from the Nike+ Coach.

What else do I need?

The band comes with a motion sensor that fits snugly into the tounge and laced area of most running shoes, however, if you decided to go all out and opt for a pair of Nike+ enabled shoes (and why wouldn’t you?!) they come especially designed with a space in the left insole to house the motion sensor – and no you don’t even notice it’s there. You’ll also need to download the free Nike+ Software compatible with most operating systems to get all the benefits that this device can offer.

Sounds difficult, do I have to be a techie to use this thing?

Far from it. The band itself is very simple to use. With just two buttons used to toggle the modes and stop and start a run, even the ‘simplest’ runner can use it. Straight out of the box the Sportband offers a 90% accuracy on the measurement of data – you can increase that accuracy by imputing precise data on runs you know the exact distance of and inputting more accurate stride data.

What about the online stuff?

This is by far the best feature of the device, although you don’t actually pay for this when purchasing the device or afterwards for that matter, it is impossible to use it without the device. The Nike+ online tools will become your personal coach, you even have the option to create your own mini avatar who prompts you to go for a run as well as making you feel pretty guilty whenever you aren’t running! I made the mistake of setting this fella up as my screensaver and If I’d have listened to him I’d have been running four times a day, so I turned him off, still a nice feature though. There is also an option that allows you to train for a 5k, 10k, half marathon and full marathon….though I can’t comment on any of those yet. Baby steps and all that.

Should I get one?

That depends; it probably isn’t going to satisfy the serious competitive runner but if like me you run to keep fit, lose a bit of weight and generally hope to improve your fitness then the Nike+ SportBand’s simplicity will greatly appeal – both the watch itself and the Nike+ Utility software are incredibly easy to set-up and use. It’s priced a accordingly too, you can pick one up direct from the Nike Online store for around £39.00 and in an array of stylish colours to suit all.

Got a Nike+ Sportband ? Tell us what you think below!