 IRONMAN* Sleek iControl 50-Lap
Running and working out is the PERFECT compliment to the iPod. Or is the iPod the perfect compliment to running and working out? More and more people these days can't be seen on the trail or at the gym without their MP3 player, even when running with a group (Which I am still confused about, why invite someone for a run and then put on headphones and isolate yourself?).
One of the issues with this is adjusting volume, changing songs, etc. You need to reach around and pull your iPod from your pack, or take it off your armband, etc. Whatever the issue, it is bound to be a pain, and chances are you are going to have to slow down or even walk.
Timex has come to the rescue with the new Ironman Sleek iControl Watch. The iControl Ironman watch transmits signals seamlessly to your iPod so you can control your music in a heartbeat. Designed around the Ironman watch and coordinated with the iPod, the iControl watch is so far the best solution we have seen to control an iPod while working out.
Using the existing Ironman Sleek watch design, Timex has moved around a few buttons, and added a couple to handle the task of controlling the iPod. With ability to fast forward tracks, go back a track, adjust volume, stop, pause, and play, the iControl handles most functions that you need during a 45-minute to two hour run.
Other features of the watch for tracking your workout include:
- One-Year Warranty
- Three Time Zones
- 2 Interval timers
- 3 Alarms
- Countdown Timer
- 50 lap Memory
- Chronograph
- Resin Strap
- INDIGLO® night-light
- Water Resistant 100m
- iPod Functions - Play, Pause, Track Forward/Reverse
- Volume control
Setting up and configuring the iControl is simple. Take it out of the box, put the watch on your wrist, plug the small receiver into the bottom of your iPod, and you are ready to head out - well put on your running shows. The iControl will not work in conjunction with the Nike + iPod Sport Kit as they both use the same receiver port.
For running or working out, just reach down to your watch and adjust volume, tracks or hit the pause button when coming near traffic or someone starts speaking to you. It is so convenient and easy that it is mindless; if you can start and stop a stopwatch, then you can figure out the iControl.
Overall this is a great item. What I've found to be a nice perk is when I am in the kitchen cooking, the iControl reaches my receiver in the living room and I can control songs. Also my iPod is hooked to my stereo, so my messy hands get on the watch, not my $200.00 iPod. Or when you are running, your sweaty hands get all over the watch, and not your iPod...saving the life of it in the long run. To clean, you dip the watch in water, something you do not want to do with the iPod.
I also had a chance to try it at the dentist office. There's nothing like trying to hide the sound of the drill while listening to some music, and all I had to do was reach down to my wrist to adjust my volume. Sweet. If I wasn't keeping the one used for the product review, I would definitely have one on my birthday wish list. The hardest part is deciding what color you want.
Manufacturer: Timex
Price: $100.00
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Only the manufacturers can provide accurate and complete information on proper use and or installation of products as well as any conditional information or product limitations. Please see your local professional bike shop for installation services. Send your comments to: info@ohiooutside.com
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