Does listening to music make running easier or more difficult?

Question

I'm running the mile tomorrow at school and we're aloud to use our ipods. But I don't know if it will slow me down or make me more pumped. What do you think? Will it help me at all??

Answer 1

Yes. it helps a lot. because, most of running, and running the mile is mostly, MENTAL. so when you listen to your ipod, it helps not think of ur WEAK endurance, and getting tired. it also helps me because, when i run, i hear the stomping of my feet on the ground, but when you use ur ipod, it helps that. but make sure, you listen to the right song too. GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 2

just look at what serious runners do in competition or while training. Do you ever see any of them listening with earpieces on? Nope.

As a serious runner myself, I have never listened to music while competing or working out. It is a serious distraction. One needs to be entirely focused mentally on the task at hand.

Now, just before competition is another story. While stretching or just relaxing waiting to begin warming up, I used to listen to music. I liked music from the Sixties... Cream, Jimi Hendrix, Rare Earth and even Black Sabbath.. to get stoked for a race.

Answer 3

I prefer to work out to music.  Songs that encourage me, pump me up, and excite me are the best for me to work out to.  Keeps me motivated and makes the time fly by.

Answer 4

Personal preference.  Purists will tell you that you should listen to your body.

I like to run with an iPod, but I generally don't compete with one, even in 10K or half marathons.

It may pump you up with the right song choices.  You won't hear more than a two songs... so choose carefully.

Answer 5

use your ipod. if youre running the mile you should definitely use music, it helps when you're in pain. but for short distances, its a whole lot better not to use your ipod.

Answer 6

If you get bored easily, I'd suggest running with music. I'm a serious runner, and I love my MP3 player! It actually helps me when I run; if I get tired, I put on a fast song I like, and I feel recharged.

You should try both, but you'll probably get used to one way or the other.

Answer 7

It really varies by person. If you don't run often, I would suggest listening to music during your mile; it helps distract you from the monotony of running and the pain you may feel. Any upbeat or inspiring songs are great to run to. I don't suggest playing any extremely fast, exciting songs unless you're doing speedwork. Good luck tomorrow:)

Answer 8

Don't know about you, but i personally prefer to listen to music, Particularly some upbeat ones that you enjoy listening to. It generally, seems to make running funner and pass the time quicker and, although im not sure of the reason, it seems to make me runner faster also

but its down to personal preference