I’ve been running for a long time – over 20 years now, which is over two thirds of my life (yikes, when did that happen?). I don’t claim to know everything about the sport, and don’t expect anyone to embrace my advice as the undisputed truth. But in the time that I’ve been running, I’ve developed several stances and opinions about what to do, and what not to do, when running.
Some of my words of “wisdom” fall under the category of “How to Not Look Silly” while others enter the much more serious realm of “How to Avoid Putting Yourself in Danger.” My first bit of advice qualifies as both.
MommyJogger’s Running Tip #1: Leave Your Headphones At the Gym
The invention of the portable mp3 player has made running a much more attractive activity for those interested in fitness. There’s no denying that a steady beat helps maintain a tempo when exercising, and rocking out to your favorite tunes helps the time pass faster. But I feel pretty strongly that headphones have a place – and it’s not on the road.
First, running with headphones is a safety issue. If you’re wearing headphones on the road, you’re much less likely to hear a vehicle approaching behind you. Even if you’re running on the correct (left!) side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, you never know what might be happening with the driver approaching from behind. Smartphone usage while driving is an epidemic, and pedestrians are at an extremely high risk. Being able to hear the approaching vehicle might give you the advanced warning you need in order to protect yourself from someone who doesn’t see you.
My other safety concern applies even to outdoor trails where there is no vehicle traffic. Assaults on solo runners happen – it seems as though I hear about at least one pedestrian assault in my area each year, if not more. The less aware you are of what is going on around you, the more attractive you would appear to a potential assailant. Even if you carry pepper spray, it might not do you any good if you don’t know someone is approaching until it is too late. We can’t control the actions of others, but we can lower our risk by being as alert as possible. Protect yourself!
The second reason for my headphone hatred is a bit more personal. I find running with headphones around other runners to be incredibly rude. If you’re running with a group or in a race and can’t hear the footsteps and breathing of those behind you, you are much more likely to cut them off. And there’s not much a runner hates more than having their run disrupted due to an inconsiderate third party. Further, group running is a social activity. Do you know what you’re saying to others as you show up to a group run with earbuds in both ears? Well, technically you’re saying nothing, but the message you’re sending is something along the lines of “I want you to pace me for this run, but I have no desire to actually get to know you or interact with you in any way.” It’s an instant sign of disrespect. The benefits you get from that music in your ear, you can get – and then some – by getting to know the people around you. My all-time favorite runs have been those that have passed quickly and seemingly effortlessly because I’ve been engaged in conversation. Sure, sometimes it’s hard to get a word in between breaths. I assure you that your company won’t care if your chatter is a bit disjointed during the tougher parts of your run.
If you simply can’t bear the thought of running outdoors without your own personal soundtrack, I beg you to at least keep one ear clear. It’s safer for you, and allows you to engage with those around you while your music plays in the background.
If you’re still not satisfied and need your tunes in the forefront, I recommend you stick to the treadmill.
Mommy Jogger 