Nike + iPod at the Gym

When Nike teamed up with iPod several years ago to deliver Nike + iPod, it was a collaboration made in heaven - both for consumers and for the two companies themselves. It was so logical, so useful, so perfect. We here at PSFK love to run - OK, scratch that, this PSFK contributor loves to run - so we understand the appeal of the Nike + iPod system. Sure, it has its drawbacks: You can only use it with an iPod Nano, and you must be wearing Nike shoes (although we’ve heard of hacks in which another brand’s shoe can be made compatible). But the collaboration is branded utility at its best.

Now, the system is being made even sweeter. Nike and Apple have just announced that they’re partnering with fitness clubs and gym equipment makers across America to integrate the technology into the machines themselves. From WWD:

Nike and Apple are partnering with major gym equipment manufacturers, including Life Fitness and Precor, to make their cardio equipment Nike + iPod compatible. That means gym members will be able to track workouts by plugging their iPods into the equipped treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes and stair climbers. At participating gyms, including 24 Hour Fitness nationwide and Virgin Active Health Clubs internationally, members will be able to use the technology to track their workouts and log their data on nikeplus.com.

Besides the fact that this new development will make Nike+ even more useful, it’s pretty exciting that this will allow gym-goers to challenge each other when running near one another on the treadmill, for instance. Not only are Nike and Apple enhancing one’s personal workout experience, but they’re bridging the gap between strangers with likeminded goals.

WWD: Nike + iPod Coming to a Gym Near You