Running with music

What do others feel about taking part in organised runs that ban the use of ipods? I recently took part in the Alresford 10k and was verbally attacked in the toilets before the race by a fellow female runner for wearing my ipod. She very impolitely informed me that they were banned and that as I was blatantly breaking the rules (I was genuinely not aware they were not allowed) then I ran the risk of being disqualified. I calmly replied that "I was an adult and perfectly able to make my own decisionsf". I later overheard her reporting me to the Organisers who quickly made a long, loud and strong announcement that we were not permitted to use music systems. I fail to understand the reasons behind this. I run around 5 times a week and enter many different races, all of which I listen to music because I find it hugely helpful. Why, I ask myself, can enormous events, such as the Flora Marathon which accommodates thousands of runners over a much longer distance, happily allow runners to make their own decision on this topic, without any problems at all, and yet a small, local event feels it can dictate in such a ridiculously "jobsworth" manner? I feel health and safety is not only ruling our lives, it is in many ways ruining much of our pleasure and taking away our 'personal responsibility' and decision making powers. How do other runners feel about this topic? I am outraged and will definitely not be taking part next year, nor will the friends that were running with me.

If it says in the rules that you cant use ipods then I am afraid you can expect to be informed politley or otherwise that you shouldnt be using them

The 'should they/shouldnt they' debate will rattle on for a decade but the bottom line is that if you want to use them then find a race that doesnt adhere to the rules

Simple as really 

Sounds like the rant of someone used to getting her own way all the time

Unfortunately, participants have no say in formulating the rules of any racing event, and if the organisers for any reason decide they do not want to allow ipods, then runners should respect that. Yes, it can feel very patronising and can be a nuisance for music lovers, I agree, but perhaps we should not make a big deal out of this. 

I almost always listen to music during my training runs, and have taken part in races where I had to do without my iPod. The scenery and the atmosphere did compensate me though.

I think that lady could have been more polite to you, though, and I am sorry you did not have a good experience at the race!

"the Flora Marathon" ?

Cracking first post Dawn, if I didn't know better i'd suspect you're a mischevious forumite on a wind up. But just in case you aren't, you've geniusly stumbled on perhaps the most repeated thread in RW history.

You get your staunch pro and staunch anti Ipod camps. Pro say they aren't affecting anyone, they can hear instructions, they're not a hazard to anyone, and it's their preference to run with music, as it's...easier.

The anti camp react furiously to such a notion, saying how can you possibly be fully aware to instructions, possible hazards, and generally arsing about in someone's way.

My own view is that I can see why listening to music eases things along. I run every single training run with music on. But then I would never dream of doing a race with an ipod. How are you possibly meant to run at your optimum level with a distraction like that? You can't feel your breathing as much, you're not as aware of how the race is developing, and you can't hear anyone about to come past you!

When I marshall a half marathon each November, giving encouragement to ipod wearers is a waste of time. They can't hear you saying encouragement any more than they can hear you saying vital safety instructions.

so you have to just let them risk it frankly!

Rich Jackson wrote (see)

TROLL !!

Seconded

Umm it's a tuff one as runners do need to be able to hear instruction from marshalls. I usually train with music but don't use it during an event for social reasons. Have seen other use them and never had any problems. However when you catch up to someone and say Hi, it does seem off putting when they are 'pluged in', but not offensive. Each to their own.

What about 'half volume' during events........... don't think you could enforce that though!!

Deeoo wrote (see)

What about 'half volume' during events........... don't think you could enforce that though!!

Or "one ear free" ?

Mr Puffy wrote (see)

Dawn isn't a troll ffs she took part in the race and is in the results.

Well in that case as my Uncle Felix would say " pull dat ting outta yer arse"

I doubt that Dawn knows that this is one of the most discussed and contentious issues in running today. Well on these forums at least.

I think StevieG sums it up quite well and as Meldy says, rules is rules.

As for the Q. "What do others feel about taking part in organised runs that ban the use of ipods?"

I'm more than happy to take part in any event that bans the use of ipods. Just as I wear a cycle helmet for events that require the use of such. I wear my race number where I am told to and abide by the rest of the rules as I don't want to be dq'd. Simple as really.

I used to take part in drag racing - each individual and their bike are scrutinised. If you don't pass muster, you don't race.

Being adult means you just suck it and get on with having fun.