Waterproof MP3 Players Can Enhance Your Swimming Workout

By Barbara Day

Recently, I injured my back and experienced sciatica pain, which ultimately turned into weeks of misery. As a result I was unable to run or cycle without pain, so I did rehab exercises in the water. Since I am not a great swimmer, I borrowed a swimming belt and resorted to aqua jogging until I recovered from the injury. However, when I exercise, I like to be entertained with music. In fact, my body doesn't seem to want to go unless it's to a beat.

Years ago when I experienced a similar injury, I didn't have access to music in the water and I must admit, the aqua jogging became monotonous and boring for me. But not in today's world! Now there are waterproof MP3 players on the market . just what the doctor ordered! Well, not maybe exactly what the doctor ordered, but at least I could maintain some form of fitness while I was overcoming the injury.

I found three waterproof MP3 players in an Internet search:

•  SwiMP3 Player by Finis (www.finisinc.com) has 128 MB memory and retails for $249.99; however, the swim outlet was selling it for $199.95. (www.swimoutlet.com).

•  SWIMMANT Waterproof Extreme Sports MP3 player comes with 256 MB memory. It retails for $249.95. (www.swimman.net)

•  Oregon Scientific Waterproof MP3 Player comes with either 128 MB or 512 MB memory. It retails for $114.95 and $179.95.

All three models can be used in the water or on land. And, each has its own clip, which makes it possible to clip to your goggle strap, headband, swim trunks, wetsuit or bathing suit top. Most of the models come with a headset, headphones, MP3 software and a battery charger.

The SwiMP3 player uses a new technology called bone conduction. According Finis Inc., bone conduction allows the listener to hear the same high quality music while swimming that they used to hearing while exercising on dry land. Bone conduction is a direct transfer of sound vibrations to the cheekbone to the inner ear. Finis states that other waterproof MP3 players rely on transmission of sound through the water or air producing a muffled sound in the water. Because the SwiMP3 player directly stimulates the inner ear, the company suggests that this technology results in a high quality of music for the listener. Finis claims that bone conduction hearing is a safe, well-established hearing mechanism in humans.

So if, like me, you like to be entertained even in the water, check out these waterproof MP3 players. Who knows, the music might increase your speed and efficiency or you might just get a more enjoyable workout by listening to your favorite music.

Barbara Day, M.S., R.D., C.N., is a nutritionist with a master's degree in clinical nutrition. She is a registered dietitian and has over 30 years of experience in promoting healthy active lifestyles to consumers. Barbara is publisher and nutrition editor of KHF and a runner, cyclist and hiker.