by John Benson

Created on: December 07, 2009

It used to be that listening to music and running were mutually exclusive activities. Even with the arrival of Walkman's and portable CD players, running often meant that the device would skip and jump and become unusable for the athletic among us.

With the iPod, everything has changed. Not least, now we can run or go to the gym and listen to our favorite music. The only question that remains is where do we put out iPods when we are jogging? Pockets are either non-existent or a dangerous home for the valuable device while we run, and holding it is awkward and sweaty. The answer seems to be the

Nike+ armband.

The Nike+ armband is a range of armbands that allow runners to monitor and track their running activities and progress, as well as a range that allow for iPods to be attached to the upper arm and carried safely on runs.

The iPod armband is made from ultra-light, soft and sweat resistant material that the iPod can sit in and is attached to the arm securely and comfortably. It includes a D-Ring design that makes the armband easy to put on and fits the arm snugly and without rubbing. The design also means you are able to see the iPod screen and visually check performance.

The armband also includes reflective detailing to help keep the runner visible and safe if running in low light or the evening.

The armband is very aesthetically attractive and should look good on the arm of runners and athletes in general.

When purchasing the Nike+ iPod armband it is important to keep in mind that this is specifically for the iPod Nano, and that the strap is relatively short, and although often sold as suitable for men, it may often be too short for the majority of male runners. The material the strap is constructed from is not elastic so cannot be stretched to fit, I would strongly suggest trying it out in a shop Pryor to purchasing this equipment.

The armband includes a plastic cover that keeps the iPod wheel protected. This may concern some people who feel it will effect the performance of the iPod, making it more difficult to change songs and volume for example. However, this doesn't see, to be the case in practice, and the dial is easily accessible and usable through the cover.

Some of the disadvantages of the Nike+ armband are the fact that it can be tricky to get the iPod into it, and can mean a frustrating start to your run. The cover also scratches easily, and after only a short period of time it can look worn and abused.

Finally, you do need to get used to having this armband attached to you. When I first used it I couldn't get used to having it on my arm, and it was only after finding a location on my lower arm that I was able to get used to the strap and device accompanying me on my run.

It is, without doubt, a wonderful experience of being able to bring your music collection with you when you go for a run, or go down to the local gym. I find that it enhances my run and allows me to get more out of myself physically.

Of all the products I have tried, the Nike+ armband is my favourite and the one many of my friends use. It has a number of flaws, but being able to listen to my favorite playlist as I run makes up for all these shortfalls and only serves to make me a better and more contented runner.

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