iLounge

Nike and Apple have announced a new initiative that will offer the Nike + iPod experience in gyms worldwide this summer. The two companies are currently working with major gym equipment manufacturers such as Life Fitness, Precor, Star Trac, and Technogym to make their cardio exercise equipment Nike + iPod compatible, so that users can track their workouts on machines like treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and stair climbers. Users will plug their iPod nanos directly into the equipment at the beginning of their workout to automatically record their progress. It appears that this will function as an alternative to the Sport Kit, allowing for the same kind of statistic and goal tracking, but using the equipment’s built-in measurement systems instead of the Kit’s wireless components. Users will still be able to log and track their data on nikeplus.com, just as they would if using the Sport Kit. To date, Nike + iPod runners have logged close to 50 million miles on the website, making it the world’s largest running club.

“The Nike + iPod experience revolutionized running. Now we’re revolutionizing the gym cardio experience,” said Trevor Edwards, Nike’s Vice President of Global Brand and Category Management. “We’re enabling people who go to the gym an opportunity to set goals, track progress, and compete in challenges with their friends and with other members of www.nikeplus.com. It’s a groundbreaking tool for people who want to maximize their workouts.”

“The iPod is an essential part of millions of people’s workouts and now users can easily set goals and track their progress with Nike + iPod,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing for iPod. “We’re excited to be working with Nike and leading equipment manufacturers to bring the Nike + iPod experience to the gym.”