Music or not?

[Novice]

I ran with no music for the first time today since I started running in June 2016 and managed to go faster than I have ever run! How did that happen??? 😕

I can not decide whether I like it or not. Partly because my breathing went to pot without a beat to follow and I didn't feel as though I ever got into a good rhythm with my running.

[abigettinghealthy]

I had the same experience - after struggling a lot with c25k I went out without music once and just ran 5k with no music, faster than I ever had before! I've not run with music since as I'm just not sure it really works for me.

I wondered if it was to do with having to pace yourself rather than run with a beat which may be faster than you would comfortably run, so you stay more consistent and comfortable rather than pushing too much too soon and then having to slow down because you've burned out too quickly?

I'm no expert though; these are just my musings!

[Theziggy Graduate]

I do both - music and no music. Sometimes the music just 'annoys' me and I take the headphones off - can't bear those in-ear things.

To be honest I probably prefer the naked (without headphones) running, but I run near traffic quite often and the music helps block out engine noise.

But in the country you can just enjoy the stillness and all the nature noises.

[skysue16 Graduate]

I only run with music if I am using a C25k+ podcast like 'speed' (no headphones/ear pieces just play iPhone on loud). I live in a rural area so enjoy the natural sounds. But also for safety - running on single track roads I need to be able to hear cars coming up behind me. Just a point to note - headphones are not allowed in some races due to safety so if you want to race it is probably best to get used to both (with& without music).

All the best