Do you listen to music when you run a race?

Question

I just finished my first 5K race and I forgot my mp3 player. I thought it was much harder without the music. I haven't been listening to music when I work out but I'm mostly on the treadmill so I don't have to worry about pacing. Is music a big factor for you?

Answer 1

I found music a distraction when running. You need 100% of your attention on your race..My guess is that with music it would be easier, but times would be slower

Answer 2

actually, it isn't for me.  I love my music, don't get me wrong, and i might have a song in my head just before a race, but i'm not allowed to have headphones in at team practices or at meets, so i'm used to pacing myself and to racing without music.  In fact, its to the point now that if a meet on the track has music during my race, i don't even notice it.

~Abab

Answer 3

I love listening to music when I run, because it allows me to zone out and in turn my body takes a natural pace of both breathing and running.  So that is kind of a big factor.  But I only do it when I run on my own and they are longer distances at a somewhat relaxed pace.  

I agree that during a race, if you are a competitive runner, you shouldn't listen to music because you need to concentrate, but if you aren't competitive it is a great idea!

Answer 4

If I am running on the road I will never listen to music, it is to dangerous. But when I am on the track or on the tredmill I will on occasion listen to music and that is only if I am doing a really long workout. When I run a 5k race I never have music playing I just feel like I wouldn't be paying attention.

Answer 5

Yes, I started years ago doing this even before they had mp3 players.  Like you said, to me it is much harder racing without it,  I'm in a zone with the music and very aware of my pace. I've run for years and no my pace within 15 secs. per mile.  I'm a competitive runner, so it's cool b/c I have many who don't take me seriously b/c I run with a mp3.  I have a set group of songs for races only, then will listen to anything when just training.  So yea run with your mp3 at races it will go so much smoother and time will fly by!!