Getting bored. Can anyone recommend a device t... - Couch to 5K

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Getting bored. Can anyone recommend a device to play movies or audiobooks please?

Kiri_Kaneko profile image
16 Replies

So I broke through the plateau and I'm running for very long amounts of time now. The greatest obstacle is becoming boredom now. I was wondering if someone could recommend some sort of device for me, either:

1) Ideally a device that can play movies. I could upload anime, movies, TV series etc onto it from my computer and then stick it to the front of the treadmill and watch it while I run

or

2) A device that can play audio books, like a kindle or something, and portable enough that I can put it in a pouch or something strapped to my waist and won't hinder me

I'd ideally like something that can play movies, anime, tv series etc. Only issue I can think of is I might strain my neck by looking down too much. Problem with books is I don't have consistent tastes and I struggle to find books that interest me, whereas I can watch anything that's even mildly engaging or rewatch series that I enjoy months later. Does anyone have any recommendations for me please?

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Kiri_Kaneko profile image
Kiri_Kaneko
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16 Replies
AndyD profile image
AndyDGraduate

I would be a bit careful with the angle of your neck if you are forced to look down all the time. Good running form dictates that you should have your head up looking forward with relaxed shoulders. If you have to, can you wall mount anything (iPad, tablet ect) in front of you at the correct angle.

I use my normal android smart phone for playing podcasts, music and the radio whilst out running. I have never tried this on a treadmill as I only use them for short speed sessions during a gym session.

Kiri_Kaneko profile image
Kiri_Kaneko in reply to AndyD

Sadly not, the treadmills are all overlooking the rest of the gym at the gym I go to. Only other thing I can think of is if I attached some sort of stand to the front of the treadmill and mounted the device on it

Are ipads and tablets really good for audiobooks etc? I've been listening to music on my ipod but it's becoming boring, and since it has a low memory and is a pain to handle uploading onto it I can't really use it for things like audiobooks

AndyD profile image
AndyDGraduate in reply to Kiri_Kaneko

Whilst I would always suggest running outside and not overly worry about audio/video, I can accept that some runners for lots of reasons choose to run on a treadmill. You didn't mention how long you were running during each session, but when I have been on a treadmill for some time (30 mins+) I have been more than happy with music, podcasts to using the Audible app on my Android mobile.

Unless you invest in your own treadmill and can rig up a screen in front of you I would drop the idea of watching videos in order to focus on your running form and run safely on a the treadmill... if you hurt your neck or fall when on the treadmill you may not be running for a while...

I listen to audio books, the radio and podcasts (there is so much choice I am sure you would find something of interest). I get books from audible for a monthly charge and would really recommend the site, a huge number of books and high quality narration. Sometimes I’m so into a book, it makes me go for a long run, just so I can listen! I listen via apps on my IPhone, which fits into my running belt. I don’t do treadmills so I don’t know about movies. Good luck🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️🏃‍♂️

mrrun profile image
mrrunGraduate

Yeah. Run outside at all times and change routes often.

misswobble profile image
misswobbleGraduate

Just what I was going to say I never get bored 😁

Or run outside if you can. Thats never boring.

Elfe5 profile image
Elfe5Graduate

... or you could have much more fun running out of doors??? 😃

Elfe5 profile image
Elfe5Graduate in reply to Elfe5

... should also have said I listen to the radio on my phone. 😀

MrsPsycho profile image
MrsPsychoGraduate

I've just started using an app called 'Zombies, Run' it's an audio adventure designed for running (you're the silent protagonist) in a post apocalyptic world, you run to pick up supplies and artefacts (this happens automatically) and there's characters who speak to you via your 'headset' (i.e. your earphones) to keep you updated on your situation

I'm enjoying it, maybe you would too?

RuthMargaret profile image
RuthMargaretGraduate in reply to MrsPsycho

I love the sound of that!

MrsPsycho profile image
MrsPsychoGraduate in reply to RuthMargaret

I'm having loads of fun, I'm only 2 episodes in and I'm already feeling attached to some of the characters and thoroughly enjoying the 'game'

mrrun profile image
mrrunGraduate

Guys, we are threading a fine line here. Do we want to run and enjoy it, as template, or not?

Alternatively we could end up posting questions such as "what is the best way to knit a jumper when bored stiff while running" or "can l compose a symphony whilst trying to forget I'm attempting a half-marathon"?

Let's hope not...... :)

in reply to mrrun

Not sure what your beef is MrR... sometimes running a long distance is a fabulous adventure, sometimes running a long distance is boring. Obviously outdoor running is usually better, but not everyone can/will be able to step out. Therefore this is a reasonable question to ask and to think about. Each to their own and all that......

mrrun profile image
mrrunGraduate in reply to

No beef whatsoever! The post was a well intentioned attempt at a joke (clearly not well done by me) ;)

Of course, we all do what we can, and there's not a perfect way, and l am and will never be (ever) in any way an authority to suggest a 'superior' option.

Apologies for any confusion!

in reply to mrrun

soz, missed it :)

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