When it comes to running, some people prefer more coaching than others. Count me in the latter camp. I have yet to compete in any races beyond a 10K, and my runs are typically footloose and fancy-free rather than dictated by perfectly calibrated speeds, times and distances.
But springtime signals the start of running season, which means any gadget that promises to help motivate, monitor and improve people’s results is welcome. And the new Adidas miCoach
Which is not to say that it’s easy to set up. At multiple points in the process (from charging the device to creating a profile), I couldn’t help but think that miCoach was taking all the spontaneity out of the sport. Then again, the whole point of a “coach” is to ensure accountability.
Launched in March, the miCoach consists of several components: a heart rate monitor that resembles every other chest band available; a Stride Sensor (a.k.a. pedometer) and a wireless Pacer that you can clip onto an article of clothing or plug into an MP3 player to enjoy your AC/DC-Jay-Z-Young MC playlist (okay, so maybe that’s mine).
The Pacer connects to your computer by USB, uploading your results (stride rate, total calories) to an online profile while downloading other necessary data to the device, be it a customized schedule or details of your “exertion zone.”
The miCoach positions itself as one step ahead of the competition by offering real-time feedback: A voice can gently nudge you to speed up, slow down or maintain your current pace. And while there’s never any drill-sergeant-style barking involved, the automated suggestions can be off-putting. Hence the Free option that allows you to run sans yapping.
Over all, I found the miCoach had a tendency to be inconsistent, like when it didn’t register the chest band and consequently was unable to record my activity. If this occurred on a big run day, I’d be mighty peeved. It also does not easily accommodate walking programs.
Still, unlike many of the pricey training gizmos that offer GPS data, the miCoach is a relative bargain at $170. And if you’ve been entertaining the idea of shelling out for a human trainer, it’s a steal.
But it’s a long way from perfect, and simply cannot replace a living, breathing coach who is sensitive to your daily ups and downs – and would have been impressed that I was finally able to run a mile last week, my first since an injury sidelined me in mid-March.
The miCoach just made me feel guilty for going so slow. That’s why, the next time I go out, you can bet the digital voice in my ear will be switched off.
