Running a Marathon with an iPod?

Question

Most (if not all) Marathons say not to run with an iPod, I ran the CIM with one and it wasnt a problem, but I am running the SF Marathon this weekend and I cant imagine running without tunes.

What will happen if Im caught?

Is it really a big deal?

I dont blast it, I can still hear people talk and cars coming when I train.

Answer 1

If caught violating competition rules, you could be disqualified.  

The problem with ipods is the same as the problem with cell phones.  When your brain is processing music or conversation, its NOT processing other inputs.

Even if thought the volume is not enough to block outside sounds,  your brain ignores them.  In effect, you're in your own little universe.   I see this all the time running and riding on my local  rails to trails path.   I announce "on your left" when overtaking, but for ipod users I often have to do it several times loud before they notice and move right.   The last couple years, its gotten so bad that I have to yell "heads up" to oncoming traffic, because they don't even notice a potential head on.    Then they're all pissed off because I "startled" them.  

Do your fellow racers a favor.  Leave the ipod at home and pay attention to what you're doing.    A marathon is tough enough without having to navigate around meandering pod-zombies.

Answer 2

Run with it, it won't be a problem .......as you said just don't blast it so you can be aware of your surroundings.  I've won a some 5K's and a half marathon running with a mp3 without any problems.

What silverbullet said is somewhat true (some runners lose focus on their surroundings), but don't generalize all of the running population b/c of a few ignorant "in a zone" I-pod runners.

Answer 3

Am I right in saying that you were told not to run with an iPod, but  you weren't really told that you couldn't? I'm not sure what would happen if you were caught but I don't think they would be that pleased because they probably had their reasons for saying you shouldn't e.g. health and safety if you and another runner collide and your headphones get tangled up etc.

Answer 4

If they catch you one of a few things might happen:

1) They might take it and return it to you at a later date and let you continue along the way.

2) They might disqualify you from the race.

3) They might not care.

You do run the risk if you don't follow the rules. It really does depend on the race and the officials involved.

I've heard of all 3 of these happening to people at different races at different times.

Answer 5

i did it becuz i cant live without music :]

and nothing happened im pretty sure many people have done it befor too.

do what ever you feel is right :]