Silent Running

[MarciePower]

Not the 1972 film - just wondering how many of us out there actually find they can manage without a playlist? I love music, but when I’m exercising I like to do it mindfully, feeling into the physical experience of it.

[Bazza1234 Graduate]

I CANNOT run while listening to music. The reason for this is that I am a rhythmic runner - I breathe in and out to the beat of my feet on the pavement , a bit like how we dance to the beat of music. Therefore if the beat of my feet does not match the beat of any music I am listening to, then it becomes a bit like trying to Walz to a Foxtrot tune

[MarciePower Graduate in reply to Bazza1234]

Yes, a fast beat might speed my feet up when really I need to keep it slow. Good point.

[Tasha99 Graduate]

I need the music to distract me 😂

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

I run half the time with and without music and both states have their advantages. "Naked", you do experience your surroundings to a greater degree and it is easier to be aware of mental processes. My playlist is my music collection, from classical to rock, reggae to Sufi mystic chanting........yes, I know.........while a beat can certainly affect your pace, I love the variety and my favourite music has taken on some very special associations for me through running.

[MarciePower Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Yes, apart from my devotion to the goddess Bjork, my music tastes tend towards the Sufi mystics too, which might slow me down!

[misswobble Graduate]

I often run in silence. On the streets I like to keep my good ear cocked 📡🙂

[pianoteacher Graduate]

I'm a musician and I run without music - mainly because unless I'm borrowing my son's phone I don't have the means to play it! Like Bazza1234 says I would have to run to the beat so would have to choose tracks very wisely

[Millsie-J Graduate]

I mix it up a bit, sometimes music, sometimes just my thoughts and the surroundings, sometimes a good podcast.

[Bazza1234 Graduate in reply to Millsie-J]

Yes - podcasts!!! Anything that doesn't have a rhythmic beat

[MarciePower Graduate in reply to Bazza1234]

Yes that's a good idea!