Just Another Training Tool?

Apparently, my last post on running with headphones touched a nerve with some other runners. There are plenty of runners who listen to music while training and a few added their two cents.

Reuben Morley pointed out:

...The fact is, some people prefer running with music while others don’t. As long as your sensible there is no right or wrong choice. Music can act as motivation, inspiration or simply a distraction to get the job done (this does not mean we as runners are unaware of our surroundings)

For people like me who train a lot, music can break the repetiveness of running and make it more enjoyable.

As I said, in my opinion, there is no right or wrong choice when it comes to music. As long the runner is precautious and sensible, they should be fine. I love music and I love running. For more than 600 miles they’ve gone hand in hand perfectly. They won’t be getting split up any time soon. iRun to the beat.

I certainly don't want to begrudge anyone who is making an effort to get out and exercise. There are certainly worse things you could be doing than donning the headphones.

However, it still seems like a needlessly risky activity kind of like texting or talking on the phone while driving.

John Fenton shared his approach to make it a little more safe:

...I only wear my headphones when running on closed-access paved trails or on the treadmill. I don't wear them on roads or sidewalks. I don't wear them on real trails. And, on top of that, I don't wear them during most workouts.

...I also keep the volume at a reasonable level. Almost without fail, I can hear cyclists coming up behind me before they pass.

It's getting warm so there are going to be a lot more runners taking to the streets. If you're one of them, regardless of whether you have headphones or not, be safe.

I'll be out there training for the New York City Marathon, and raising some money for the Leukemia so say hello if you see me.