Do you run with or without music?

I never run with music due to the fact it's dangerous and I can't hear things going on around me or I get too distracted just singing along to a song.

But I was tired last weekend and decided I needed a pick me up, so I brought along my ipod and I actually ran faster than I normal.

So now my dilemma...I'm running a half marathon this weekend and I'm wondering if I should bring my ipod? hmmm

I'd say go without. Psychologically, having a group of other runners around you will give you the same pick-me-up that music can. You can find someone going your pace and run with that person. Or, you can target someone ahead of you and try to catch up to that person, then repeat with another person. Good luck!

When I was running regularly before, I never had music during a race. Most of the entry forms for the races I was in specifically stated they were not allowed. Since I was never one to use music while running outside (safety issues), I didn't mind. Like timl33 said, there is so much going on in the race and so many other racers you won't need your music.

I always bring music when I run on a treadmill, though. It's so tedious that if I don't have music I get bored, distracted, etc.

Best of luck to you in your race!

I ALWAYS use my ipod when running on the treadmill or the local high school track, and NEVER use my ipod when running on the trails. Safety issues (people, cars, and wildlife). I don't use music on my marathons, either. First, most organized runs ban them, and second - you lose out on the opportunity to chat with the runners around you, and cheer on the runners passing you by! Good luck this weekend!

I have to warn you that this may be a moot discussion - the marathon bans the use of headphones during the race. I have worked at a few events here in Ottawa (Canada), and we have told people to either remove the headphones or leave the race. Some get by, but I personally wouldn't want to take the risk!