miCoach is notable for being one of a handful of apps to support the use of a Bluetooth LE accessory on Windows Phone in the form of a heart rate monitor. The latest version of the app also supports the Adidas Speed Cell, a small sensor that is attached to your shoe lace and provides more accurate information on stride rates and patterns. Bluetooth LE support is currently available on the Lumia 520, 525, 620, 720, and 1520; it will be supported on other devices (e.g. Lumia 925) once they are updated to Windows Phone 8 Update 3.
The Bluetooth LE support in the miCoach app is being used as something of a testbed by Nokia and Microsoft. It is anticipated that other apps supporting Bluetooth LE will be made available shortly and that an add-on SDK will be available for developers wishing to add support for Bluetooth LE to their own apps, though currently, there is no precise information on the timing of the public releases of the SDK or related apps.
Here's how we described some of the key elements of the app and service when it launched last year:
One of the key elements of miCoach is the voice coach that gives instructions, information, and motivation during workouts (e.g. run with 9/10 effort for two minutes). The app lets you choose from a range of voices, including some well known sporting personalities such as Andrew Murray and Jessica Ennis.
It's possible to use the app simply for tracking free-from workouts (walking, running, cycling, etc.), but the app and service really come into their own if you set up a training program through the miCoach website. This will give you a set program to follow (certain types of training on certain days), with your phone providing a prompt and full instructions for each workout.
Windows Phone Store description:
Turn your phone into a personal coach; miCoach is your smart running compagnion on Windows Phone 08. The app uses GPS and real-time voice coaching to pace you through your exercise regardless whether you are indoors or outdoors. Additionally get access to hundreds of strength & flex exercises to achieve your fitness goals. miCoach works with many adidas top athletes and coaches to offer the best in training building speed, endurance and strength. Train smarter and be faster with miCoach!
Adidas miCoach is a free download from the Windows Phone Store.