Everyone has his or her own opinion on running with music—some love it and some hate it. Others find a happy medium between the two. I used to always run with music, until the last year or so. I don’t know what changed, but I don’t run with music as often as I used to.
There are, however, workouts where I really need the music to pump me up and carry me through the run. I have some set playlists for these types of runs. Other than that, I have tried to unplug and just focus on my running and mother nature.
I think it’s hard to really unplug anymore in life. We are constantly bombarded by information and news 24/7 whether it’s our smart phones, iPads, laptops, or televisions.
I have found it harder and harder to really “tune out.” When I run without any music, podcast, etc. I find that I am truly present in the run—whether I want to be or not! 
I will admit that on long runs, it can be a different story. There is only so much time I can spend inside my own head for two hours! On long runs, I like to listen to podcasts. I have mentioned the Another Mother Runner podcasts before, but I also like NPR and listening to audiobooks too.
Do you listen to music while on the run?
I don’t normally listen to music, but if I have a long run without a partner, I would probably use it. I’m lucky enough that my schedule allows me to have a partner most of the time!
I only run for the cardio portion of my workout, so my runs are no longer than 3 miles at a time. I use music to pump me up during the run because then I move onto weights and I need that “fired up” mentality. HOwever, if I was a true runner, going longer distances, i would probably not use it. When I used to run races years ago and would train for the 10Ks or up, I loved being outside with the thoughts of my own mind and nature. IT was peaceful. My goals are different now with running, so I jam out. But you’re right- trying to unplug is not easy!!!!!
I have to run to music. I know I use it as a crutch, but I really rely on the upbeat choruses and certain songs to get me through a tough run or race. I have such respect for those runners who can run in silence.
I have run without music. And I’ve done just fine. My paces were fine. But I like the opportunity to get out of my head. Running is the only time I’m not bombarded with questions and toddlers and work and …….. I like to listen to my music (It’s about the only time I really get to listen to my music) and get all the thoughts of work and kids and menu planning and …. out of my head.
I’ve tried running to podcasts. I just really struggle to listen and pay attention to them. I have a horrible reading comprehension and have a hard time paying attention to stories without being able to read along or take notes. I was a superb note taker in college and still am in church. If I’m not taking notes, I’m not really paying attention and it all escapes me.
It’s not the pace of things that keeps me listening to my music, it’s the fact that I just can’t follow along.
I have a full head of thoughts. Even on my longest runs, I prefer silence. Well, it is never silent in this head of mine but so so so much better for me to NOT have music. Too much noise. Even on my 3 hour and 15 minute run this weekend, no music. Just myself. 🙂
I’ve never tried my LR with a podcast, but I may try it since my LRs are getting longer. I usually listen to music, but I’m trying to start running some runs without. We’ll see how my 7 miler goes tomorrow without music 🙂
Unless I run with a group I have my iPod, though during a marathon a few months ago I turned it off and was surprised at how much I enjoyed not having it on.