Workout-worthy MP3 players and headphones

The SanDisk Sansa Clip is tiny and comes with a removable belt-clip and built-in FM tuner--perfect for the gym!

(Credit: CNET Networks/Corinne Schulze)

Swimsuit season is fast approaching, so it's the perfect time to really buckle down on that fitness routine and do some last minute toning. But being active and getting in shape isn't just about looking good--it's also about being healthy. So even if you're not hitting the beach this summer, that's no excuse to shun your sweatsuit and sneakers.

Luckily, you needn't suffer through workouts in silent boredom--some upbeat music can provide the perfect motivation to get moving. Better yet, plenty of MP3 players available today offer some great workout-worthy extras, such as built-in belt clips, pedometers, and calorie counters. Even an FM tuner is a great extra, since it'll let you tune into the TVs at the gym...and tune out of the sometimes mind-numbing repetition of physical activity.

Headphone manufacturers also continue to churn out better and better fitness-friendly sets; namely, sweat-resistant models that offer various design features to ensure the 'phones stay secured to your head during activity. If you're looking for the perfect music gear to aid you in your quest to get into top physical condition, you've come to the right place.

MP3 players for any workout

Fitness-friendly headphones

[b_baggins]

Yawn. CNet continues to think people actually want an FM receiver in their MP3 player.

[JWilliams06]

I don't know what you're talking about, but I regularly utilize my FM tuner on m Sansa Clip going to and from places. Working out, running, etc. It's something that the iPod sorely misses from its functionaliy. I get tired of listening to the same old song after song after song, or days old podcasts that I have to catch up on and just end up deleting them as they stack up on my queue.

[canadianreader]

I bought my Sansa specifically because of the FM, and that I could record it, too. We all like different things, and I appreciate hearing different points of view - I don't dismiss them....

[stephencyy]

I go to the gym and they broadcast TV volume though FM signal. Sometimes I need to watch and listen news, so I think FM is still one of necessary features in MP3s.

[tjf0]

I would not buy a MP3 player without an FM tuner, i listen to Car Talk on long bike rides or I listen to Public Radio news while riding into work. Recording is also a great feature to have.

[GolgothaBlack]

It should be automatic that any DAP has an FM tuner, but I'll go one further and say that they should have an AM tuner as well. What is the problem with implementing a full radio on players? I have this clip specifically for the gym, but would also like to listen to Cubs games on it, which are broadcast on AM.

[DADSGETNDOWN]

How does the FM TUNER let you tune into TV ?
Is there a way to be notified when someone replies to this post ? Lol..

[Jasmineflower]

Most gyms have the TVs set to output to specific FM frequencies, so you can then use an FM tuner to tune into the frequency and listen to the video that's playing on the TV.

[Rádi Pál]

Deer my soon very happy MP3 player>FM tuner/I'M You are very happy/ Thank You e-mail You and everything/love in