MAT Tourniquet, Save Lives & Limbs. Now!

Cybertech MAT applied by rescue teams to save Kevin Sterne’s life and leg, at the Virginia Tech Massacre. What more is to be said, simple, easy to use and saves lives and limbs.
Instructions:

1. 
   MAT's unique design grips to appendages -- facilitating 1-handed use.
   
2. 
   The MAT is easily secured into place with an assuring "click" sound and feel.
3. 
   Simply pull the MAT down tight...
4. 
   ...and quickly turn the tightening turnkey to safely and securely occlude blood flow.

To be able to do this under stress, and with one hand make the old belt and sticked obsolete.
Check it out! MAT

There's a reason they call it, Slice!

We did not get to see what Faris Al-Sultan could do on the bike, but indications were for a fast bike. Cannaondale went back to the drawing board and crafted a fully carbon machine. With some Carbon bikes they will flex under pressure and many who can put the power to the peddles, feel as though this takes some speed away, Faris Al-Sultan being one of them. At first he was against Cannondale and the full carbon, but once in the tunnel and riding the machine, happy days.

The bike:
3:1 ASPECT RATIO
The frame and the fork of the Slice are designed as a system. The aspect ratio of the fork is designed for optimal laminar airflow, reducing drag.

SPEED SHADOW
The Speed Shadow seat tube design hides the rear wheel from turbulent airflow.

DUAL POSITION AERO SEATPOST
Allows both triathletes and TT specialists to optimize their position. Centered on the post, the saddle achieves either 78 or 730 and can be adjusted forward or back to accommodate rider preference.

Cannondale has demo centers set up, so get on one and check it out, the wait for Ironman Kona showdown will have to wait till next year.
Check it out! Cannaondale, Slice

2XU Compression system, money back guarantee.

You can't beat this for one of the best companies making performance gear for athletes, 2XU is giving a money back guarantee on their 2XU Compression Performance Base Layer System

The only way to truly experience the superior benefits of 2XU Compression is to try it. We are so confident that our product will surpass the capabilities of our competitors we are offering a money back guarantee.

Contact 2XU for more info: info@2xu.com

Doing a endurance sport like triathlons you expect a lot from your gear, not to mention you put it through a lot. 2XU is one of the leaders in the field and with their new Kona Fusion Suit being introduced at KONA, worn by Michellie Jones expect a fast swim, but back to the compression suits.

Here is what it does:

1. Superior Fabric: With circular knit technology for equal 360 degree stretch, anti-microbial treatment and highly durable 50 Denier Lycra Prime Yarn. Compresses stronger and lasts longer.
2. Improved Recovery: Therapeutic rated fabric provides greater pressure and recovery benefit leading to faster muscle repair.
3. Improved Circulation: Faster warm up and improved oxygen circulation. Encourage blood to the muscles and flush by-products away.
4. Reduced Fatigue: Reduced muscle vibration (linked to muscle fatigue) thereby improving muscle endurance and strength.
5. Reduced Damages: 2XU muscle containment can reduce soft tissue damage in contact and intense sports. Preventative support and aided recovery.
6. Heightened Proprioception: Heightened body position sense for enhanced stability and agility.

With these types of claims, you can't go wrong. Go get em' 2XU

replug, the end of headphones being yaned from your ears!

Done, finished enough already, you move to the left, you stand up, get caught on your coat, whatever the reason replug ends headphone being yanked from your skull. Replug transforms any 3.5mm audio jack into a breakaway connection, protecting your audio jack from the rigors of daily use. When too much force is applied, Replug simply detaches from itself, preventing catastrophic damage to your audio device. Simply reattach plug to tip and you’re ready to go. Jack saved, and your ears will thank you as well.

Brilliant, just plain Brilliant. Check them out and get em' replug

iPhone, iPod listen to music through skullcap!

This gets filed under "I can't believe i did not think of this", wow got to hand it to Nike to really give consumers what they will buy.
People have been trying to keep the earbuds in while they run, a lot having no luck, When mountain biking they get bounced out. Wearing this Skullcap will keep all happy, not to mention many bald men who where a hat in the winter.

Keep your ears warm and filled with music thanks to the Men's Nike Performance Hatphones. This cozy, comfortable skullcap features a pocket for your iPod nano, clickable controls and built-in headphones that easily adjust to fit your ears.

• Built-in pocket for iPod nano
• Adjustable headphones
• Embroidered Swoosh design trademark at center front
• FABRIC: NEED

Technology:
Therma-FIT
This double-brushed microfiber fleece retains energy and resists heat loss. It provides maximum insulation from cold and wind with minimal weight and bulk, and is ideal for any cold weather activities that require insulation. Can be worn alone or as part of a multi-layering system. Now when temperatures drop, workouts don't have to.

WAY TO GO Nike!

Nike and Apple release the Amp+

Post comes from our friends at ThinkTri.com
Well this is pretty cool looking, Nike could have made a bit more fashionable watch but at least the made the watch. The Nike Amp+ Sport Remote Control is a watch and a remote for the Nike+ experience. Hear instant voice feedback of your time, distance, calories and pace when you add the Nike+ iPod Sport Kit and Nike+ Ready shoes or the Shoe Pouch.
Now I am not a fan of the crazy new look but for the individuals that are wearing this at the gym or to do their daily run, Nike has hit the spot. Not being able to use a iPod or MP3 player while in a race, training with one becomes a crutch.
They built the controls right into the front of the watch along with a speaker so if you don't have the headphones you can still hear your results, smart since you don't want your headphones in while running on a crowded street or at night.
Nike and Apple are pushing technology further than most and other companies are just following at this point. The Polar is still the leader in high fitness, but with the middle market still needing a cool watch Nike + Apple are it. If they wanted to take this to the next level (which I am sure they have thought of) is the iPhone, let me have one device to do it all.
Check it out.
Nike Amp+

Interbike, Cool New, Shinny Toys

Everything you ever wanted to know, see, play with, ride, demo, experience is in Las Vegas, at least for everything biking or outdoor fitness.
You can look at the Interbike Blog or Wired's Blog to get complete coverage of what is going on. There is everything from Ceramic Bearings to Off Road Skates. It is truly amazing to see what changes or new additions that companies make. Orbea Bikes has a amazing redesigned triathlon bike that we will see highlighted at Ironman Kona, they have completely change the layout of the frame from the headtube to the integrated seat clamp.
ORDU
"Ordu is totally new for 08, every aspect of the new model was evaluated in wind tunnel testing, resulting in a 7% improvement in aerodynamic efficiency over the 07 Ordu. The new headtube is uniquely designed to reduce frontal area. The new seat mast, bottom bracket shell, integrated seat clamp, and aero dropouts show that nothing has been left untouched in making the fastest bike on the road."

The show is made up of curious people to small business owners, independent shops bloggers and whoever is left over fro the night before.
Check it out! INTERBIKE..

Hitachi, Biometric Wristwatch

Thanks to Gear live
Hitachi, better known for TV's, DVD's, Projection, etc, is now taking a leap into the (ACE) fitness market. The Biometric watch will work 24/7 for 10 straight days, thats some good data. It is roughly the size of the Garmin 305 but weighs less.
"Based on a prototype they developed two years ago, the watch now has a lighter weight of 40 grams and is half the size at 43 x 35 x 15 mm. You only need to connect to your PC (wirelessly) to read the data. We think that we are already nervous about a device that tells us that we eat too much and exercise too little. Expect it to hit the market in 2008. "
Check it out! Gear Live: Hitachi Biometric watch

Exergaming, keeping or getting kids active

Well this blog and most of the post are about getting you out and exercising. Well one of this countries biggest problem is Obesity, and with ideas like this, we might have a chance (I am still in favor or getting your butt and kids butts outside). Xrkade is taking all the interactive games and putting them into an environment that is condusive to exercising, not ot mention competition.

"The XRKade club is a new and exciting destination created for the Millennials and Generation G (“Gamers”). It is a cutting edge environment focused on offering the tech-savvy an immersive sensory based experience complete with the most advanced interactive games, exergaming, and entertainment systems. The XRKade club resembles a virtual reality type arcade with a futuristic, urban, and X games twist that is motivating and exciting. It is an experience offering entertaining and physical challenges that completely submerges the user in the XRKade games and activities. It motivates the user to be active with each activity and game they play while receiving the benefits of being physically active"

Not sure it will take off, but with winter coming it is a good time to launch and open places around the country. They should just rent space in areas for the winter then move to resort towns during the summer, so when it is raining or cold, kids have something to do. Give me a call we can work out the marketing of this offline.

You have something great. Xrkade

See in the Dark: Street Runner LiteVest

GOMOTION a new company that is making running in the dark easy and risk free. The product, depending on your use, is a variation of itself.

The Trail Runner LiteVest features a low-profile, lightweight, breathable mesh pack with 3-Watt LED mounted at chest level for maximum trail visibility and comfort, and a hydration cell option. Adjustable features include shoulder strap adjustment from the lower back area and a LED chest-strap slider more maximum chest comfort and fit. The CoreBeam™ chest-mounted LED technology includes:3-level brightness control, wide range and adjustable beam width control via rotary dial, and barrel-mounted FluidDrive vertical-pivoting light. Fitting out the pack are two red tail-lights, 4 zip pockets for cell phone and other accessories, a compartment for a standard hydration pack and a low-battery signal light to alert the runner well in advance of low battery life.

The Street Runner LiteVest features a super-lightweight, adjustable mesh harness with padded straps, a 1-Watt LED at chest level for maximum trail visibility and comfort. Adjustable features include shoulder strap adjustment from the lower back area and a LED strap slider more maximum chest comfort and fit. CoreBeam™ chest-mounted LED technology includes: 3-level brightness control, wide range and adjustable beam width control via rotary dial, and barrel-mounted FluidDrive vertical-pivoting light. Other features include two red tail-lights, 1 center pocket for cell phone and a low-battery signal light to alert the runner well in advance of low battery life. The Street Runner can also accept the GoMotion™ re-chargeable battery.

And last the Sport Runner LiteVest features a contoured, waist-level running belt designed as a lightweight solution for walkers and recreational runners with breathable mesh construction. It features a 1-Watt LED with the same CoreBeam™ functions as the LiteVest including: brightness control, beam width and light direction adjustment. Two rear tail-lights, two zip pockets for cell phone and accessories, and has a low-battery signal light round out this easy-to-use LiteBelt™.

I have not found a price for them yet but rest asured I will have one now that we are running out of daylight.
Cheers

Body Sensor give real-time monitoring

This is big news for anyone that is looking to progress to the next level without having to wear sensors glued too you. e-AR Sensixa has come out with a wearable device that can monitor, sports, wellbeing, healthcare and for gaming.

I don't think that I can say it as well as BSN:

The last decade has witnessed a rapid surge of interest in new sensing and monitoring devices for healthcare and the use of wearable/wireless devices for clinical applications. One key development in this area is implantable in vivo monitoring and intervention devices. While the problem of long-term stability and biocompatibility is being addressed, several promising prototypes are starting to emerge for managing patients with acute diabetes, for treatment of epilepsy and other debilitating neurological disorders and for monitoring of patients with chronic cardiac diseases. Despite the technological developments of sensing and monitoring devices, issues related to system integration, sensor miniaturization, low-power sensor interface circuitry design, wireless telemetric links and signal processing have still to be investigated. Moreover, issues related to Quality of Service, security, multi-sensory data fusion, and decision support are active research topics. To address general issues related to using wearable/wireless and implantable sensors and to bring together scientists from computing, electronics, bioengineering, medicine and industry, the term BSN – Body Sensor Networks was coined by Prof Guang-Zhong Yang of Imperial College in 2002 and after much preparation, the first International Workshop on BSN was launched in 2004. Some of the key research focuses of the BSN community includes the latest technological developments and clinical applications of:

• Novel bioelectrical, biochemical, biophysical, and mechanical sensors
• Hardware considerations: low power RF transceiver, energy scavenging, battery technology, miniaturisation, system integration, process and cost of manufacturing
• Biocompatibility and materials
• Context awareness and multi-sensor data fusion
• Data inferencing, knowledge discovery, and prediction
• Quality of service, trust and security issues
• Autonomic sensor networks
• Standards and light-weight communication protocolsIntegration with ambient sensing with applications in smart dwellings, and home monitoring
• Wearable and implantable sensor integration and development platformsClinical applications of body-sensor networks

Check it out! e-AR Sensixa

easyglider, Get out and Get Around!

Hey sometimes fitness can include a motor! easyglider a company out of Bern, Switzerland, has come up with a great alternative to the Segway, plus it is faster. Yes it uses gas but those are some of the trade-off one has to make, to be stylish. It won the Best Invention and the Industrial Design Award, cool, and as they say "We are very proud to say that we have won them all."
They have 3 products:
easyglider X6
easyglider KIDS
easyglider ECO
and two in the works
easyglider WATER
easyglider X7

So this is really sidewalk surfing. Glide anywhere to the beat of your own drummer. The best part of this is getting you outside. I am all in favor of any product that gets people outside, the could however make one that is rechargeable, might not take so many hits from the environmental crowd if they had one in their stable.
Check it out! easyglider

Garmin Edge 705, Wireless Cycle Computer

Wow times are moving fast in the GPS world. Not only fast, but small and carrying a truck load of features. The Edge 705 pulls out all the stops, this GPS-enabled cycle computer knows no limits. Get heart rate, cadence, turn-by-turn directions, power data (from ANT + Sport™-enabled third-party power meters) — the works. Even share your data with other Edge 705 buddies after your ride. All wireless with a color display, this is no ordinary cycle computer. When you start incorporating all the parts that make a triathlete or athlete smile. Too boot it is all wireless.
You can:
Navigate Your Ride
Get the Data You Need
See Your Power
Measure Heart Rate and Cadence
Swap Rides Wirelessly
Share, Store and Analyze via Garmin Training Center
All for the price of an iPhone!
Check it out..

Polar and Education

The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that obesity gained in 31 states with Mississippi being the first to crack 30%, Colorado is the leanest. So with companies like Polar trying to make a difference you have to give them Kudos. Polar has products like E600 Watch , the TriFIT, Software to manage your classes performance and a pocket PC called Compainion Pocket PC, with all these products in their arsenal schools should take a stand and start to make a difference. On Polars site there is even a link to help schools apply for Grants (PEP). Why wait help out, donate or just start educated our children about eating right and staying fit.
Thanks Polar for taking the first steps.

Poalr ProTrainer 5

Well if you have an IrDA (infrared) Polar Watch then this new and improved software is for you.
"Polar ProTrainer 5 is a sophisticated software designed to provide you with deep understanding of your training. It ships exclusively with Polar’s high-end Running, Cycling, and Outdoor Sport products, and functions as a stand-alone Windows software in a PC.

Use the software to plan your workout in advance with multiple planning options, and transfer the settings to your Polar product. After your training, analyze the results with versatile graphs which you can customize according to your unique needs.

A customizable calendar provides a complete training log where each transferred exercise file automatically creates a diary entry with all your training data. Use different reports for long-term development follow-up.

Polar ProTrainer 5 professional software is compatible with:

• Polar CS600 (included in set)
• Polar CS400 (included in set)
• Polar RS800 (included in set)
• Polar RS400 (included in set)
• Polar AXN700 (included in set)
• Polar AXN500 (included in set)
• Polar S810i / S810
• Polar S725X / S625X (included in set)
• Polar S725
• Polar S720i / S710i / S710
• Polar S610i / S610
• Polar S520 / S510
• Polar S410
• Polar Team System"
You can even try it out for 30 days. The only problem that I had with the software is getting the IrDA to recognize the watch. I had to go into the startup (F2) when windows started up. For some reason Dell disables this function. Once I turned it on Vista downloaded the drivers and it now works seamless. So don't go and buy the USB IrDA from polar without seeing if you have infrared built in.
Check it out! Polar Watch

Track Your Trips: Trackstick!

As components get smaller companies are able to do amazing things. Garmin just came out with a new watch Forerunner 50:
Jump start your training with Forerunner 50. This sleek sports watch is ideal for running, cycling and other fitness activities, and is available with a wireless heart rate monitor or foot pod or both. Plus it automatically transmits workouts to your computer so you can analyze, store and share data using our online community, Garmin Connect™.

So when the TrackStick released this new device, things are going to get interesting.

Check out specs:
"The Trackstick II is the perfect fit for personal GPS tracking. Bring it on vacation to keep a satellite scrapbook of all your travels and record your explorations. You can carry it along on all your regular outings from home to get a better sense of your daily surroundings through Google Earth’s cohesive 3D maps of your community. With Trackstick II a computer screen can guide your family and friends on a virtual tour of your vacation. Take it fishing and mark the catch spots to discover feeding patterns over time. Find a good camping spot and leave it to Trackstick to remember where it is and the path you took to get there. It’s a fun and immersive way to show others where you’ve been. You’ll even enjoy seeing the normal routes of your day breathe new life as you view them like never before with Google Earth’s 3D model of the planet. The possibilities are endless and our users are always finding new and interesting uses for the Trackstick."

Now go and get one, and get outside!

iControl + iTunes = Perfection, well almost.

Well at first you have Nike plus which was a foot pod plus a connection for your iPod, all wireless. For true enthusiast what the iPod was missing was the connection to a watch that captures more than how far you ran.

The iControl™ watch transmits signals seamlessly to your iPod so you can control your music in a heartbeat. Change songs and volume without breaking stride.

Designed to work with your body and coordinate with your iPod, the iControl watch is sleek and comfortable to wear - with all the feature you need for running around the track or traveling around the world.
Check it out! Timex - iControl

Time for some Summer Fun, Springfree

When I was a kid my summer camp had a gymnastics area, and a trampoline. The best thing that the camp did was dug a pit so that the tramp was at ground hight, allowing for the kids and instructors to spot much easier. I have always wanted a trampoline for myself but the round ones never did anything for me, plus they were dangerous without someone spotting you at all times. The benefits of trampolines are incredible.

"The aerobics associated with jumping on a fitness trampoline strengthens the heart in the same way as other cardio exercises like running and jumping rope. This increase in cardio rate encourages energy use and weight loss. Spending five to eight minutes doing trampoline exercise is like running a mile, only with less time and effort. Trampoline exercise tones muscles in the lower half of the body. The legs, thighs, hips, stomach, and abdomen are all used when exercising on a fitness trampoline. The trampoline workout can also be a fun activity for all the family, it is fun to watch and once you learn how to use it properly you can also contribute your opinion, and improve the workout altogether." John Furnem

So when I came across SpringFree Trampoline I did back flips. SpringFree has really done a great job of putting safety first and fun second. Now you would think those two would not be fun but seeing is believing. SoftEdge Technology
Over a period of twelve years, the Springfree™ Trampoline engineering team has created a unique softe-edge jumping system that has removed the traditional frame and spring system from the same height as the jumping surface. The frame has been lowered, well away from the jumper, with all-weather fibreglass rods , which extend from this frame into an innovatve connector system at the edge of the mat. The rods are angled on two axis, tensioning the mat to provide bounce, while also creating a soft edge that is deflected on impact. Only Springfree™ trampolines have an edge soft enough not to require safety pads.

SAFETY
As a parent, your family’s safety is a priority! Springfree™ Trampoline is safe by design, giving you complete peace of mind.

HEALTH
Child obesity is a big problem. Most kids spend too much time watching TV or playing video games, so it’s really important to get outside and active. Springfree™ Trampoline is great, fun exercise! Ten minutes of jumping is as good as a 30-minute run—and way more fun!

QUALITY
Springfree™ Trampoline isn’t just a notch above all other trampoline products—we’ve taken quality, safety and innovation to the next level. Lots of thought goes into our designs to make every Springfree™ Trampoline sturdy, strong and weather-resistant.

PLAY
We’ve reinvented the trampoline without compromising the fun. Springfree™ Trampoline is hours of fun! No more “I’m bored” means more free time for mum and dad—and with the coolest trampoline ever, you’ll be a real hero!

CONFIDENCE
Jumping is key to your child’s mental and physical development. Springfree™ Trampoline helps accelerate the progress of your child’s motor skills, balance, and coordination, making them more confident all round.

CONVENIENCE
With minimal maintenance requirements, ease of use, and of course, fast and easy purchase options, Springfree™ Trampoline is as convenient to own as it is fun to use!
Check them out! SpringFree Trampoline

Perfect Pushup, Navy SEAL's

Trying to perfect the one thing that people have been doing for fitness since 1905, the pushup, is not an easy task. That being said, The Prefect Pushup does just that, our Military (best in the world) does some pretty basic fitness routines to see if you have what it takes and have been doing it for quite some time. Stew Smith a former Navy SEAL and now fitness writer and trainer has outlined the standard requirements to pass the fitness test. Some of you will look at this and say hey I can do that, remember they are called on each on they do, all the way down and up, but not completed until the instructor calls it out.
So when the The Prefect Pushup came out, also developed by Alden Mills, a seven year veteran of the Navy SEALs, people tend to give it a little more credibility, I do.
"As a SEAL Team TWO platoon commander, LCDR Mills' platoon was chosen for a one year study to determine why SEALs suffered unusually high injury rates during their careers. (73% of SEALs were on disability after 20 years of service) After learning the injuries were linked to their training methods, SEAL trainers switched from age-old body building techniques to Functional Training.

Functional Training mimics the natural movement patterns a person employs at work, playing sports and in daily life so they become stronger for the things they do. LCDR Mills learned that many muscles have a natural rotation in their movement, and the more these muscles are allowed to rotate, the more fully the muscles get engaged and the better the results. Just as you rotate your arms when swinging a baseball bat, a golf club or throwing a punch, your muscles and joints want to rotate when you do a pushup. We like to say, “From Rotation Comes Power!”™

Very few people in the world do more pushups than Navy SEALs. The pushup is the primary exercise for all three phases of Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training. Even to earn the right to start BUD/S, candidates must meet minimum pushup standards. And long after SEALs graduate from BUD/S, they are tested semi-annually on their ability to perform a number of pushups in two minutes. It's a proven exercise, but it's one that can put undo stress on joints and prevents muscles from following their natural rotation. Thanks to Alden Mills and his BODYREV teammates, the code for the perfect pushup has been cracked. Which means, you get more muscles naturally engaged for better results faster."

Enough Said!
Now get out of the gym and build your body right. The Prefect Pushup

Polar Cadence Sensor Set

A must have for all cyclist. You may feel as though you are turning in a good pace and the MPH is up in the 20+ but nothing is like tracking your Cadence. all3sports.com one of the best places to get triathlon gear has the Cadence Sensor set for $45.95 a great price for knowing your Cadence.
What is you Cadence you ask:

When cyclists talk about cadence they are referring to the number of revolutions that they crank makes each minute as the pedals are turned. This in layman’s terms simply is the speed at which the cyclist pedals or turns the pedals on the bike as they ride.

Most cyclists will have a certain cadence speed which they feel comfortable with when they are out riding. Today a lot of bicycles come with a large number of gears so it makes it possible for a cyclist to stick to a cadence that they prefer through a wide range of different speeds at which they are traveling. Normally a typical cyclist will look at having a cadence of between 60 and 80 revs per minute (rpm), whilst professional (racing) cyclists will look at theirs being between 80 and 120 rpm. However sprint cyclists will normally be able to manage 170 rpm for very short distances. Lance Armstrong one of the worlds well known professional cyclists is able to produce a cadence of 120 rpm. Read more at Ezine! So get into Cadence and ride faster for longer.

New York Triathlon is Upon Us!

With all that is going on how could one miss the New York City Triathlon, in my opinion this is right up there with New York City Marathon. I am really excited to be a part of the race and Toyota's Engines of Change team. The technology and effort to put events like this on are incredible. You have Nautica one of the main sponsors, Toyota's Engines of Change , Janus, Accelerade, GHI, ORBEA great bikes by the way, Lifetime Triathlon Series, Vitamin Shoppe and Ameriprise. With out all these sponsor and the money they put up events like this would never happen. Thanks All and get ready for the fastest swim in a Triathlon, I am not sure if that is current or the desire to get out of the Hudson!

Heated Wetsuit

A Heated Wetsuit! Hotsuits have come out with a way to keep you warm in the water, a kidney belt that emits heat for up to an hour. It seems as though Rip Curl has a heated wetsuit, and a pretty cool video to show it off, hey if you have the money to make a music video to promote your product go for it and YouTube has helped all sorts of inventor get their message out, but I digress.
Hotsuits claims that providing heat to the kidney region helps maintain core temperature, and warm blood flow to the rest of the body. The thing that I like the most about this is that it is portable, unlike Rip Curl's, it is not just limited to wetsuits, how about skiing, climbing, sailing, openwater swimming, you get the idea. Hotsuits is also the winner of ISPO, Brand New Award! I am sure Rip Curl has a great product, but a young inventor like this you have to give them a shot, plus they might be cheaper plus you don't have to buy a new wetsuit. Hotsuits Heated Kidney Belt + 16.50AUD worldwide postage (regular airmail)=$105.50 AUD or $91.73.
Check them out! Hotsuits

Family Fun: dig&sit

Doing triathlon's, spectators get the short end of the stick, until now! I am hoping to get into the Block Island Triathlon and what a great way for a family to sit and watch the swim portion of the race, dig&sit is a great product coming out of Europe, and it was a finalist at the ISPO Brand New Awards and I can see why!

"The dig&sit® is a flexible beach sofa. Ideal for a quick visit to the beach or the complete beach holiday. In combination with sand the seating possibilities are endless. In no time you (literally) dig the perfect 3-seater on your favorite spot!

The Dig&sit® is made of two layers of damp proof, PVC coated nylon. Quilted foam zones give the necessary comfort in the back- and seating areas. Around the seating area there is a 40 cm wide edge which prevents sand coming onto the seating area. Built-in stainless steel eyes in the corners secure the Dig&sit into the ground to prevent it from blowing up.

The sophisticated dividing zones make it easy to fold up the Dig&sit and the stitched foam zones force the Dig&sit into a compact roll. With the accompanying rucksack it is easy to take the dig&sit everywhere. Spade and security pegs are included."
All I can say is I WANT ONE...dig&sit

Coming to America: Polar g3 sensor (GPS)

Polar is adding to the US line it g3 sensor, which is a GPS unit for it's RS800 watch. This is great for Polar who had been lacking in the GPS department, both Garmin Forerunner 305 and Timex Bodylink have been doing this for quite sometime, making an uphill battle for Polar. If Polar could incorporate it into existing watches through a software upgrade so users could just buy the g3 sensor that would be a slam dunk for Polar, and would catapult them over Garmin and Timex.
Here is what Polar is saying:
GPS (g3) vs. Stride Sensor (s3)
The RS800 training system was launched along with the s3 stride sensor. Both the s3 and the g3 units have distinct advantages for measuring speed and distance:

Worn on the foot (or in a cavity in the mid-sole of adidas adistar running shoes), Polar’s s3 stride sensor is the best choice for running; using sensitive inertial sensors to track the position of the foot 1000 times a second it is immune from signal dropout and gives accurate and highly responsive speed, distance, leg cadence and stride length measurements. s3 is the right choice for competitive runners who want to improve their technique and running efficiency.

g3 can be worn around the waist, the arm or even carried in a back pack and, as movement is tracked by the global positioning system, it tracks speed and distance across all terrestrial sports.

“Adding g3 to the RS800 training system enables athletes, who train and compete in sport categories additional to running, to benefit fully from the complete range of industry leading features incorporated in the wrist computer and accompanying Pro Trainer 5 PC software.” says Marco Suvilaakso, Product Manager, Polar Electro Oy.

On sale through authorised Polar resellers during the second half of 2007, g3 will be available for purchase as an upgrade for existing RS800 owners, or as a complete set in the RS800g3 Training System.

Let's hope we don't have to buy a new watch...Check it out! g3 Sensor

Vital Monitoring System by Dan Bishop

In my gym there is an area where I can sit down, put a blood pressure cuff on and get my statistics. Nice but how many others have put their sweaty arms in that cuff! This Monitoring system designed by Dan Bishop is aimed at ease of use. With only a few steps to get the reading it really is that simple, plus from the look of it, plastic, which can be cleaned with a disinfecting wipe, nice touch.
How it works:
• First, a baseline vitals reading is taken manually, to reference future readings from.
• Then, whenever a new reading is needed, the patient is informed via light vibration that their vital signs need to be measured and recorded.
• Next, the patient swipes the temperature sensor, located on the bottom of the monitor, across their forehead.
• This activates the blood pressure/pulse sensor on the inside of the monitor, next to the wrist.
• The data collected by both sensors is then complied and sent wirelessly to a paperless charting system that records and logs patients vitals.
All done, reducing stress and work load on staff. Vital Monitoring System
Check it out

Keeping Track of your Training Online!

There are a truck load of online training programs, from Polar and Nike Plus so when Active Trainer emerges athletes should take notice. Active Trainer is a division of Active.com a website that athletes can search and register for events and activities, start online training programs or access nutrition, fitness and training tips.
With Active Trainer you get 24/7 online access to online training tools. Once you buy a training plan it dumps it into a calendar that you can manage.
Active Trainers Tools
• Easy to use calendar
• Detailed reporting
• Helpful training tools
• Daily email reminders (which is great)
You are in complete control of your training data using Active Trainer. Active Trainer gives you the tools to move, copy and delete workouts, add new workouts, and access training plans from the most respected coaches in the industry.
and more... Check it out!

Nike Vision, these glass stay put!

I might be late to the game on seeing this, but no more glasses. I am in! I can't find the link on Nike but after doing a search I found the link from Sci Fi Tech, so thanks SciFi.com. Now Nike in conjunction with Bausch & Lomb have developed special optics for athletes. They come in amber and green, both keep out UV rays but the amber lenses also filter out blue light, which is the part of the spectrum that has the most visual noise. Here is the catch you don't slip them on, they are contact lenses and you don't need a prescription.
Low Down
• Provides distortion free optics
• Covers your entire pupil, eliminating glare and enhancing contrast
• No frame or nose piece obstruction, no fogging or fit issues
• Blocks specific wavelengths or of light
• Filters out more that 90% of harmful blue light and 95% of UVA and UVB

Here is the link to a free trial

Trimapper.com

Well now that Web 2.0 or Mashup has started to take off (not sure why now since bloggers have been doing this for quite sometime), sites like Active.com need to step it up a little. It is OK to tell us where the races are but when you have sites like Trimapper showing you where the races are, links to the website, hotels and a brief description of what type of triathlon is going on, all via Google maps. Now Trimapper get updates daily so if you do not see one that you know is coming up, go and add to their site.
About TRImapper.com:
TRImapper.com - Visual Triathlon Finder & Directory. TRImapper.com, the ultimate triathlon directory is providing a triathlon map that will help you locate local triathlon races or triathlons around the world. TRImapper.com is powered by Google Maps to plot the races of all types. You are able to filter the triathlons by race distance/type (Ironman, Olympic, Sprint, Xterra,...), by race month, position the map on a geographical location, find near by hotels for each triathlon and automatically zoom in to the race site with a single click. The site currently has over 1100 triathlon races plotted on 6 continents from 54 countries.

As for Trimapper if they would like to team up with my idea Virtual TRI, I would gladly work with them. Well lets hope a meeting of the minds take place, until them use this site it's great and highly resourceful!

Clif Bar for Kids ZBAR

OK, I know that this blog is about technology but I had to write this up.

The other day while in a food store I saw a overweight 8 year old girl and her very overweight mother standing in the deli line. The little girl was stuffing a muffin in her face, (I am saying this nicely as possible, so not to offend too many people) there was crumbs everywhere. The store was Whole Foods and it is one of the best places to shop for food. So this got me thinking that if we don't change the way that adults think about Obesity then kids are doomed before they can make their own choices.
So after a race awhile back I came across ZBAR for kids. Good ole Gary from CLIF, is starting to make healthy choices for kids. They even have the seal for USDA Organic along with SB19. Senate Bill 19 (SB19) is legislation that sets nutrition guidelines for California schools. I am not sure why this has not been mandated to all school systems, but it should!
Technology can always help and with many devices that are being developed to monitor heart rate, diabetes, etc., making sure kids and adults are exercising correctly can only help in the huge epidemic that healthcare and insurance companies are facing, OBESITY!!
Get your kids eating healthy. ZBAR from CLIF BAR, you have to start somewhere!

iPhone and Training is it in Apple?

So the iPhone has released the date June 29, and I can't wait, now how are they going to work the Nike Plus into this little puppy, if they even have too. If or when they can connect the two boy will things get interesting, or should I say more interesting. A GPS, Google maps, Nike Plus tracking your millage, Map My Run so you have a place to store your runs and share with friends and community, wow I am sure I could keep going. Also they are opening it up to outside developers, so my idea of Virtual Tri can really take off (if you are interested in learning more, contact me at usiskin(Youknow)healthcurrency.com).
So embrace this new standard set by Steve Jobs and the team at Apple, if anything love 'em, hate 'em, they have set the new standard many are trying to catch. From here on in how we store information and communicate and listen to music has changed.

Solar Safe: Simple way to keep safe in the sun

Technology mean many different things, this one helps protect us from the sun. Now training all the time mean that you have to spend a lot of time outside. From triathlons to sailing you have to protect yourself today! Solar Safe has found a way to warn you about over exposure. Using the device can't be more simple.
• Activate the wristband by exposing to direct sunlight - the band turns purple.
• Coat the band with the same sunscreen as applied to you and your family, appropriate for your skin types.
• Further color changes warn to re-apply sunscreen or seek shade.
• Wear for the day and throw away!
What could more simple than that.
Check it out! Solar Safe. This will be the next product bought for me and my family.

Black Diamond: AVALUNG, breathe under snow!

Find yourself in sticky situations while skiing or hiking, feel as though you could bring the whole mountain down. Using a beacon is helpful if you are trapped under an avalanche but only 50% of the time. Most of us today ski with a pack, we feel safer, we keep an extra polar fleece some Cliff bars, a first aid kit and whatever else you might find could save you in-case of an emergency. Well AVALUNG keeps the odds fair. It looks like a tube coming off of your Camelbak except you breathe through it! Once you exhale it expels the waste out the rear of the pack. Not sure how long it will keep you alive but anything is better than nothing.
I'm in! Black Diamond: AVALUNG

iWear • Your clothes will became iPod holder!

OK MACS are cool, and yes they come out with great products, iPhone, but enough already with the "i's", think of something else to set your product apart! Anyway enough about "i's", a company has released a pretty cool product that can hold the Nano in your cloths. Not revolutionary, copied off of a product called the POP Swatch, this product came out in 1986, and could be worn in your clothing. A friend of Mine Steve Martorana kind of thought of this idea about 3 years ago. We had sat down and thought up a cool way to make the iPod stick in your cloths. Well because of $$$ his idea died.
So here is what it can do:
Practically invisible! It is hidden behind your clothes and leaves the front row to the iPod design itself.
• You can use it with practically any clothes such as jeans, skirt, pants, T-Shirt, sweater or even a scarf.
• (up to 1 mm textile thickness).
• It can be attached and detached with one movement.
• iWear does not use any chemical glue or something which harm your clothes.
• It holds your iPod safely but does not prevent your movements.
• You can use for resting, walking, jogging, running or riding on a bike...in every season.
• Sleek iPod design.
• You can also use it as protective casing for the iPod screen (by placing the iPod the face down).
• It can use iPod nano first generation and second generation (aluminium) also.
This mean no more arm bands, lanyards, holding it in your sweaty hand, or putting it in your pocket.
Check them out! iWear

Child Trailers, get the kids involved

We all know that obesity is at a all time high, so get your kids involved as early as possible. Studies have shown that if a parents exercises with their children, then it is more likely that your children will be into sports as well. So what better way then as baby to bring them along. I have been using the Burley for about 5 years now and it is great, the kids are getting a little old to be in the trailer but going to the beach each year this thing is great. Strong, light and roomy you can't complain. The best thing is that the sand stays in the trailer not the car.
The other day I noticed a trailer or side car called Chariot Carriers. So instead of getting pulled behind the bike where you can't interact with your children, and if it is dusty, wet or muddy there is a good chance your kids will eat some dirt (I am not saying this is a bad thing). The Chariot SideCarrier is like a side car, putting the carrier right beside the bicycle allowing contact between the you and your child.
Both of these trailers have their advantages the Burley for being able to handle crowded roads and longer treks, the Chariot for it's interaction and cool side car look.
Check them out! Chariot carriers, Burley

Speedo: FSII Triathlon Suit

I have been swimming with the Fastskin® Hi-Neck Bodyskin (I got it at the Speedo sale section, reg. $240, sale $72) and all I can say is that this suit is fast. Then to top it off Michael Phelps goes and destroys all records at this years FINA World Championships, in a new FS-PRO Hi Neck Bodyskin. So picking up last years model was a steal. It makes you feel like a seal, you cut through the water and it holds your body tight. So if the FSII Triathlon suit is anything like its parent then Triathletes take notice.
Here is what Speedo say:
1. Fastskin® FSII, the most advanced and lowest drag racing swimwear in the world to date, is now available for multisport activities.
2. Fastskin® FSII is a hybrid of two highly specialized Speedo® – exclusive fabrics, Fastskin® and Flexskin, to accommodate different flow characteristics across the body and reduce drag through the water, up to 4% decrease compared to original.
3. Fastskin® fabric mimics the rough shark denticles to reduce drag in key areas and features a Turbulence Management System.
4. Greater stretch for better fit and movement. Thread feels softer against the skin..
You can get the XD Skin model for $126 @ the Swim Outlet the best price I have seen.
Check it out! Speedo USA

GPSPORTS: Leader in Sports GPS Solutions

GPSORTS, The world leader in sport GPS solutions, have some great products that monitor your body in motion, real time. When athlete should push themselves, hang back or is bonking, play a vital role in the success and longevity of an athlete. Being able to track that is the best thing going.
"Knowing how fast and far an athlete has travelled in training is vital to the correct development of the athlete's energy systems. Not knowing or poor analysis leads to poor athletic performance. The overriding goal for the sportsperson is to improve his/her performance and competitive edge.

GPSports provides the athlete the crucial tools for understanding his/her physiological responses under different training and competitive regimes, and over time."
Here are the key components to GPSorts products.

1. The SPI family are the performance monitoring products of choice by leading sports science institutions and elite athletes around the world (see GPSports client list)

2. The technology is multi-sport usable without reconfiguration (walking, running, cycling, rowing, etc).

3. There is no calibration of the technology required. Switch on and Go.

4. GPSports SPI products are the only systems available that are "TUNED FOR HUMAN MOVEMENT". They are the most accurate & reliable systems on the market.

5. The unit captures multiple performance variables including kinematic (speed, distance, etc) as well as physiological (heart rate).

6. External devices can be "plugged in" to the SPI products (eg cadence, stroke rate).

7. Comes complete with powerful analyser software.

8. Replaceable software capability to allow for exercise programs to be uploaded.

9. Access to online training diary for assistance in program generation and monitoring.

Their current products are:
SPI10
SPI Elite
Analysis Software
GPSports PerfectSession.com- Perfect Session is the first online Periodisation* diary that incorporates advanced training program theory to help the user plan, monitor and modify training programs to achieve their goals. * Periodisation: Cyclical structure of long and short term training programmes, to maximise performance and reduce the risk of injuries and illness.
Check them out! GPSORTS

Newton Running, One Word "GREAT"

Write-up after write-up in the Triathlon world the Newton Running Shoe is being called one of the best shoes around. You are forced to change your running style but for the better I am told. "To discover your best running form all you need to do is run barefoot. You'll immediately discover that when barefoot you're not landing on your heels, you're striking on your forefoot.

Striking on your forefoot is the most natural way to run, it is also the fastest and most efficient way to run. Newton Running shoes were developed to make your feet think they're barefoot and increase your performance"
Newton seems to be targeting the Triathlon market first, which I am very happy for, I plan to order mine in the next couple days, will let you know how things go!
Check them out! Newton Running Shoe