Physical Education on an iPod?

Originally the iPod was designed for downloading mp3 files and that was it.  However, this incredible device has produced many more uses other than audio playback.  Now physical fitness workouts can be purchased and downloaded onto your iPod, iPod Nano, or Video iPod.  Through several websites an individual can download workout plans, get tips from personal trainers, and purchase audio/picture/video guided programs to work through your fitness routine. 

PumpOne

The first website is PumpOne.   Pump up your workout!  In a perfect world we all would have personal trainers.  However the costs and time commitments don’t exactly allow that to happen.  PumpOne trainers are the new best creation, available wherever and whenever you have time to workout.  How exactly does this work?  Most PumpOne trainers are 4-6 week training programs with 1-3 workouts each.  These portable trainers range in price from $19-$29 and can be purchased in bundles at a promotional rate of $29-$49.  This is a great deal when you compare it to a certified trainer at $55-$75 per hour for a week, month or year.  These PumpOne trainers are affordable, portable, and doable.  Just how does this work?  Each PumpOne trainer is a collection of JPEG formatted images.  After downloading a PumpOne trainer, run the installer.  Handheld devices such as the Treo include their own software and instructions for downloading, storing and viewing images.  To use these PumpOne trainers on an iPod, add the Trainer images to your “My Pictures” folder, Adobe Photoshop Album, Elements or iPhoto as a collection or album.  The iPod works with Apple’s iTunes for PC and Mac and allows you to synchronize these folders and/or applications with the iPod.  Open iTunes for PC or Mac, select your iPod options button, click the Photos tab and tell iTunes where your PumpOne trainers are stored.  Now using your handheld’s “next” button, you can move from one exercise to the next until the workout is finished.  You can customize the PumpOne trainer by changing the order of exercise images.  Each image exercise includes a start position and an end position.  It shows you what body part you are working, the name of the exercise, and proper form.  There are also easy-to-follow tips that guide you through each exercises start and finish positions.  Purchase and download training programs for strength training, weight loss, endurance, flexibility, and heart health.  For more information visit the PumpOne website at http://www.pumppod.com/pumpone/index.html.

Podfitness.com

The next website is Podfitness.com.  With this site you can put a personal trainer right on your iPod, mixed with your own music.  Just download the Podfitness Workout Mixer, select your goal, choose your trainer, choose your music, and click “Mix” and your workout is loaded to your iPod or mp3 player.  The different goals are:

• Weight Loss
• Body Shaping
• Bodybuilding
• Fitness-General
• Strength & Power Training
• Conditioning for Athletes
• Sport-Specific Training
• Core Training
• Walking & Treadmill

For more information visit their website at http://64.242.62.68/web/web/about. 

Back to m-Learning News