Monday, May 19, 2014

Prevent Moisture Damage to Phones during Workouts

These days, cellphones are no longer just communication devices, they’re great fitness tools, too. For example, people can download a timer that keeps track of their workout reps or a pedometer that counts the number of steps they’ve taken. Of course, when there is physical activity, there is also sweat—and no matter how versatile smartphones are, one thing they don’t do well is withstand moisture.
This is especially true for iPhones, whose manufacturer, Apple, does not honor moisture damage. In fact, the phone even comes with a liquid contact indicator that turns red when the unit is exposed to too much moisture. Hence, Apple will know with certainty if your phone got wet or was otherwise exposed to moisture.
Of course, sweat isn’t the only threat to your iPhone. Say, for example, you’re hiking outdoors and the rain suddenly pours. Or what if your water bottle spills inside your gym bag and wets your smartphone?
To protect your phone from such occurrences, it is best to purchase a waterproof iPhone case. After all, smartphones are not cheap, and repairing them can cost as much as buying a new unit. A waterproof case, on the other hand, is a small investment that insures your phone against expensive repairs. Of course, purchase your case only from trusted retailers whose products guarantee 100% protection against moisture, lest you be lulled into a false sense of security.

Finding the Ideal Hydration Pack for Your Sport

Hydration packs offer athletes a quick and easy way to stave off dehydration and ensure peak physical performance. However, not all hydration packs are the same, and some may be more suited to one sport than they are for another. Use the tips below when looking for the ideal hydration pack for your favorite sport:
  • Bladder size is dictated by the nature of the sport. A good rule of thumb to follow when choosing a bladder and hydration pack is: the longer the activity takes to complete, the larger the bladder that is required. Going larger than necessary, however, would only add extra weight, thereby defeating the purpose of the hydration pack as an ergonomic accessory.
  • Test freedom of movement along your sport’s typical motion patterns. For example, stand-up rowers will want a hydration pack that allows them to bend forward at the start of the stroke, hence the need for a hydration pack that rides higher on their back.
  • Look for hydration packs that fulfill your cargo space requirements. Runners, for example, might prefer hydration packs with minimal pockets to limit weight, but a fisherman will need respectably sized compartments to carry all the gear he needs to take with him.
  • Consider other accessories that might come in handy, such as cold weather add-ons. These may add a bit of extra bulk to the hydration system, but improve ability of the system to function as it should in different situations.