Running with music

During my first 1/2 marathon I was totally against running with music. For some reason I thought it would be going against the unwritten rule of running without any sort of aid or inspiration...just me, my head, my feet, and the pavement. After my experience with this marathon I decided to forget it and run with music to make the run a little more enjoyable. Lets be honest...who really wants to run over an hour without anything to think about besides occassional thoughts running through your head of pain and "how much longer do I have left?!" Definately not me! Whenever I spot a really serious and diehard runner, they are usually running without any music. Do they really enjoy running those lengthy distances without anything?? I guess I understand if it is for safety reasons, but I think there are times where you can be perfectly safe and listen to music.

Here is an article that talks about running with music. It talks about how music can inspire you to make you run faster and longer, but it also talks about important factors that relate to running without music.

I will admit that I do think there is some benefit to running without music. You have time to think and relax, and it is also safer. So I guess you should just find a balance that works for you. Maybe this article will give you some better ideas.

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,sss6-240-363--10348-1-1X2X3-4,00.html