My Internet … Personal Solutions, January 2013
Improve Your Podcast Searches
If you like to listen to podcasts on your smartphone but have trouble finding content of interest, then a new feature called Smart Station within the free Stitcher app is worth trying. You hit a thumbs-up button to indicate you like a podcast selection, which improves the algorithm to offer up similar content in the future. If you like a given show, hit a star icon to add it to your list of favorites and new podcast episodes will be added to your favorites when available. Stitcher includes a sleep timer.
Virtual Trainer or Just an Exercise Reminder
Want to eliminate the cost and time commitment of using a personal trainer? If so, try the PEAR Mobile Training Intelligence app. With a Bluetooth heart rate monitor checking your body’s response to a workout, the system provides real-time coaching, support, and data feedback while you listen to your favorite music. Users are able to track progress on hundreds of custom workout plans and share performance with others. Cost is not insignificant at $150, but neither is a personal trainer.
If you don’t want a virtual trainer but just a reminder about what part of your body to exercise on a given day at the gym, then get the GymGoal Plus app, at $4.99, for Apple products. It tells you what routines and equipment settings you have used lately.
Advice on Movies to See
If you want to get a quick read on new movie releases, then go to www.RottenTomatoes.com. Symbols identify which movies you should see (rating a fresh red tomato) and which ones you should skip (a splattered green tomato), along with a percentage of critics who feel positive about the movie. Click on a film and you can see movie summaries, audience reaction, and critic reviews. A free app for the site is available.