An alternative to the Nike+ kit is the miCoach which also has a heart rate monitor and (as with Nike+)a stride sensor; the diff being that you can attach it to any type of trainer.

The miCoach system is better then the Nike+ one as well far more detailed (if you’re after a more comprehensive training system).It actually creates your training schedule for you (based on an initial training run) and is therefore geared towards the individual, as opposed to regular training plans.

The one drawback is that the unit capturing the information is actually a phone (albeit an mp3 player as well) and can feel a little cumbersum on the arm.

For me though it has helped immensely with my motivation whilst out on the long runs; I used to go off too fast and the system has helped me be more sensible when running allowing me to run further and faster then ever before. The Nike + is ok; but give me the miCoach any day.

1 – you’re right about nobody talking to you in london. on saturday i ran round greenwich park and blackheath smiling (although in the later stages, possibly grimacing) at people i passed. how many people smiled back? None. Not a single one. Big difference from Scotland…

2 – i always run with my ipod and recently invested in the nike+ sports kit. it’s fantastic, the best thing i have spent my money on in a long time. i highly recommend it!