Fitness: Track your movement with the Nike+ FuelBand

Last week I attended a pre-launch event for the new Nike+ FuelBand (now available in select stores across Canada for $149). I arrived not really knowing what to expect, since a lot of details hadn’t been released. After picking up my Nike+ FuelBand, I was asked to sign a waiver before proceeding into the event’I’d find out later why!

The event began with an incredible parkour performance. (If you’re not sure what parkour is, it’s also called "The Art of Moving" where participants run, jump and maneuver themselves around obstacles. Check out this video to see an example.) Next, Nike athletes P.K. Subban, Steve Stamkos, Tessa Bonhomme, Phylicia George and Priscilla Lopes-Schliep were introduced, and as media we learned we would each be on a team. My team captain was P.K. Subban, who plays defence for the Montreal Canadiens. The goal of each team? To rack up as many fuel points as possible while rotating through five different parkour obstacles (the guys who had opened the event with a parkour performance were at each station to show us what to do). It was hard! But I tried my best’and I have the bruises to prove it! In the end, our team ended up winning the $10,00 prize, which went towards charity.

So how does the FuelBand work?

The FuelBand is kind of like a hi-tech pedometer/watch. It records Nike "fuel," steps taken and calories burned, and it also tells you the time. According to the press release, a built-in three axis accelerometer measures your motion throughout the day. Then, you connect the band to your computer using the built-in USB, or using the USB cable and stand. You can also get the Nike+ FuelBand mobile app to sync wirelessly, set your goals, track your progress and get a boost of motivation on the go.

The band features a row of 20 LED lights showing your daily goal progress from red to green. Time, NikeFuel earned, calories burned and steps taken are displayed in white LED lights. You can cycle through the four display options with the hit of a button, and the charge on your band should last up to four days. Also, like a lot of watches, the FuelBand is water resistant, so it’s safe to wear in the shower, but you shouldn’t go swimming with it on, so that’s one fitness activity where you won’t be able to measure your movement.

Would tracking your movement throughout the day motivate you to be more active?

Related:
‘ 8 fun ways to stay in shape
‘ 20 ways to burn 100 calories
‘ 4 ways to burn more calories when walking