Your Ipod Can Aid Exercise

Modern living has become much more technology based and sedentary, with virtual entertainment being the most popular pastime of choice. This has obvious effects upon health and the world has startling increasing obesity levels. Although technology is not to blame, rather than the people who choose to use it, more could be done to integrate technological entertainment into a more active lifestyle. The iPod is redressing this balance with the addition to its available accessories of the Nike iPod Sports Kit.

Research has consistently shown that listening to music improves mood, and the most recent findings suggest that music actually gives a cognitive boost. Listening to music during exercise improves most people`s performance in a number of ways. Music provides an encouraging rhythm which synchronizes with the movement during exercise, and which helps push further. It also distracts from event. The iPod has already helped many sports enthusiasts to enjoy their regime more fully, but now the iPod can offer some real assistance.

The Nike iPod Sports Kit consists of two elements; a music player and a pedometer. These two items have been important for the runner for a long time, but the iPod version has many additional features. The device works as follows; a sensor fits into the sole of a specially designed Nike + shoe. The receiver is plugged into the iPod Nano which has the battery power, the memory and all required software installed. The sensor detects footfall like any other pedometer, and sends the information through transmitted radio waves. Each device has its own unique code and so even if there a few runners using the iPod accessory, only your information will be received. Another clever feature is that different sensors can be used on a single devie, so more than one person can benefit.

The real beauty of the Nike iPod Sports Kit is the extent of the information transmitted. It sends to the device the number of calories burned, but also calculates speed using equations which consider foot fall and the amount of time the foot is spent on the floor. Other information provided to the mp3 mp4 player device includes distance and comparative statistics to previous performances. Goals can be set on the software and the results will state how your performance compared to your goals. In addition to this, the device allows you to create play lists for your workout.

Although the level of information is excellent, it is easy to read whilst working out. The iPod Sports Kit come with a click wheel which acts as a control whilst running. The information is not just stored on the screen, but is also provided by a computerized voice system. The device is easy to use overall, with the required software already installed in the latest models, with the software available to download for older iPod`s through the online update feature.

Once the workout is complete, the statistics can be stored on a computer. There is then the option to join a huge online iPod community where information uploaded from the device can be shared with other runners. This can be helpful for goal setting and to set challenges. Running enthusiasts can compare information, and even share routes with an innovative mapping function. This additional feature of services gives an excellent social dimension to an often lone sport. It is amazing that this can be done online.

Overall the benefits of the Nike iPod Sports Kit include advanced equipment which combines two important elements for sport; music and information. The device is lightweight, compact and the software is top of the range. It helps improves health, through enjoyment and factual assistance, and is available for all users despite the age of their model.

The only real disadvantage is the fact that there is much apparatus needed which can be costly. The basic requirements are an iPod Nano, the Sports Kit and the Nike + shoes. Although other shoes can be bought that have a pouch for the sensor, these use a different angle so do not achieve the same results. The other point worth noting is that the iPod Sports kit requires the user to have a good understanding of computers to get the full benefit.

This article is under GNU FDL license and can be distributed without any previous authorization from the author. However the author's name and all the URLs (links) mentioned in the article and biography must be kept.

Developing a Business Strategy That Works

Many things can contribute to creating the business image that you want and they should all be considered before you rush into having anything printed to promote your business.

Start with the very name you call your business. When deciding on the name consider just what the image is that you are trying to convey e.g. fun, serious, sensitive, caring, knowledgeable, etc. Don't have the name too long or too difficult to pronounce or spell.

As well as a short name, if possible it should also give an idea of what the business is about. This will help your potential customers to recognise and remember your service/product. You can also create an image or 'branding' by supporting the name with a logo (a graphic or drawing) to help customers visually recognise you. A logo does not have to be complicated - it can simply be your name, which is written in a particular way e.g. Coca Cola just uses the name of the product written in a specific style.

In most countries you have to legally register your business name. In Australia registration allows you to have an individual name for your business that is not identical or similar to another business name within the State where it is registered. The cost of registration is around $70 in most Australian States.

As you may not get your first choice of a name, the registration form allows for alternative suggestions. Do not make the name of your business too long. It is difficult to fit in computer fields, and you may find clients end up abbreviating it.
Registration will not necessarily protect the rights of the name from being used by other businesses especially if they create a company or add another word in front of the name.

In Australia, the registration lasts for three years and can be renewed. The Certificate of Registration you are given must be displayed in a prominent position at the place of business or outside every location where business is conducted under that name.
The registered name also must appear on all stationery such as letterheads together with the ABN (Australian Business Number).

It is important that you do not commence using the name you have chosen, or have it printed on anything, until you receive notification that it has been accepted for registration (you will receive a Certificate with your business name attached). You cannot claim any expenses in relationship to your business until you have a registered name (unless you trade only using your actual name)

Business cards are a cheap and most effective way to promote and advertise your business and are an invaluable networking tool. Each business card should contain the business name, persons name, title, address, phone, fax, email and web address. If the name of your business is not self descriptive, put a couple of words to explain what your business does, e.g. Gabogrecan Enterprises - Art Commissions, Tourist and Fashion Product.

Your card should be designed with the image you want to create, in mind. Colour, style and size of fonts, logo and the quality of card used, can all contribute to the image you wish to create.

Business cards are often stored in special containers or plastic sleeves by participants. If your card cannot fit these receptacles, they will be placed in a drawer and forgotten. If you want to have a magnet card, or some other type of interesting format - produce and present two business cards. One for storing with others and the special one to make an extra impact.

When exchanging a business card, take the trouble to read the information at that moment (it shows genuine interest and helps you remember the person). Jot some details on the back e.g. Date and function at which cards were exchanged, and any special details to assist you in remembering the contact e.g. opened the door for me!

Business cards that have a great deal of information printed on the back, are laminated, or are of a very dark colour, make this networking function impossible.

Always have business cards with you. Keep them in a wide variety of places so you do not forget them. Carry blank cards with you for those people you meet who have forgotten theirs.

Remember, business is often about perception. If you are targeting the small or micro business sector and your printed material is 'over the top' this can lose customers just as quickly as promotional material that is scatty and obviously disjointed.

This 'over the top' material is something big business does all the time and then they wonder why they cannot win over customers from smaller business. The bigger and bolder the 'splash' of your promotional material is the more is will suggest that what you have to offer is expensive - is this the image you want to portray? Remember that the smaller business does not necessarily think expensive means quality service or product.

Think out your image before having a single thing printed and this includes how you will present it e.g. will a brochure, flyer, business card be presented in a folder? Once you have decided on your image - then promote it and build up your brand recognition.

Take Care Of Your Car

Everyone wishes for a car that is completely free of dust and stains, but looking after cars is a very difficult job. Both time and exertion are required to make your car appear as good as it was the day you bought it, to add to the car's life, or to even get a really good price when you sell it.

Due to prolonged usage, the car gets spoiled by scratches and stains leaving it with a lack-lustre appearance, especially if its original colour is gradually fading off. A full-fledged car care routine involving car wash, waxing, and car polishing can bring back the shine of your vehicle.

You first need to clean all the dirt through a thorough car wash with sufficient water and shampoo, after which you have to decide upon either waxing or polishing it. There is a great deal of confusion among people over when the car should be polished and when to use car wax. It is crucial that you, as the owner of the car, know precisely what kind of maintenance and care your car requires.

Car wax is contains carnauba and other wax derivatives, which make the car gleam and sparkle. But in absence of abrasive ingredients, car waxes are unable to get rid of more prominent stains and they are also unable to withstand high temperatures.

Whereas car polishes possess a unique ingredient called Teflon, which makes them last longer on your car and gives it a brand new appearance. Scratches and stains on the car's exterior are also better hidden with polish.

When polishing the blend edges, work away from the boundary. Hand glaze the blend edge. It is more advisable instead of machine polish. When you hand glaze, use a smooth clean cloth.

As a thumb rule, if your car is constantly exposed to the daily grind on dusty roads, car polishing is the perfect solution. A car wax might be appropriate for special occasions that require the car to have a special lustre, but it is not perfect for prolonged use. Therefore, you have to figure out the needs of your car taking into account its model and your lifestyle, and then go for a makeover that not only gives your car a fresh appearance but also makes it suitable for long term use.