materialsgirl
Cathlete
I can't say enough great things about my iPod Nano. They are expensive, yes... but they are so easy to use, and you just cannot beat iTunes for selection. iTunes even has downloadable workouts, and free podcasts - all sorts of things to keep you entertained while you workout. Also, the Nike+ capability is fabulous - the Nike+ system is so cheap, and easy to use, and it's great for tracking speed and mileage if you're a runner or walker. (And you DON'T need Nike shoes to use it!) Yes, the battery is propietary and would have to be replaced by Apple if it ever died completely... but the fact is, most people will probably upgrade to a newer/better iPod long before the battery ever gave out anyway. I've had my Nano for about a year and it's still going strong.
As for treadmills... if you plan on doing any significant amount of running on your treadmill, then you are looking at spending at LEAST $1000. That's the bare minimum you can hope to spend and get a treadmill that is truly built for running. A $500 treadmill is probably fine for mostly walking and occasional jogging. It will not hold up to serious running, though. You didn't mention if you plan on doing mostly walking or running, so I can't say what treadmill will best meet your needs. I have a Horizon Elite 5.2T, and got it on clearance for $1600 (the newer replacement model is the 5.3T, I think). It was rated a Consumer Reports Best Buy, has a great warranty, and is very sturdy. I've had it for 1 1/2 years, and trained for half marathons and a marathon with it and never had a problem.
As for treadmills... if you plan on doing any significant amount of running on your treadmill, then you are looking at spending at LEAST $1000. That's the bare minimum you can hope to spend and get a treadmill that is truly built for running. A $500 treadmill is probably fine for mostly walking and occasional jogging. It will not hold up to serious running, though. You didn't mention if you plan on doing mostly walking or running, so I can't say what treadmill will best meet your needs. I have a Horizon Elite 5.2T, and got it on clearance for $1600 (the newer replacement model is the 5.3T, I think). It was rated a Consumer Reports Best Buy, has a great warranty, and is very sturdy. I've had it for 1 1/2 years, and trained for half marathons and a marathon with it and never had a problem.