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Ban on IPOD’s? Read on…I’ve got somethin’ for ya’ll!

October 16th, 2008 · 144 Comments

I’m a HUGE music lover. In fact, today, I was totally rockin’ out to my current favorite, Warren Zevon while riding my bike.  I feel motivated and inspired to work hard and go fast while riding.  (it’s also safe since I’m riding in my garage- I would never ride outside with an IPOD on)  In certain situations, I think IPODS are totally appropriate, however, I’m not convinced that using an IPOD during big races is the best way to go…I understand the mid-pack and back of the pack folks need the music- but, is it all that safe?  My biggest thing is the actual MOMENT of the event.  Being present with what you are actually doing.  Talking to fellow runners, thanking the volunteers, listening to your body…It’s totally up to you if you use one or not, but, what if you wear it in just one ear and be aware of what’s going on around you.  I tried to talk to some runners in St. George and they couldn’t even hear me.  The day I injured my knee, I was running with an IPOD and stopped listening to my body aches and ended up walking home.

Here is a great post on how running with music can increase performance!

Elite runner’s do not run with IPOD’s.  Think maybe they prefer to focus on their races and competitors rather than a distraction?

What is your opinion of using an IPOD during big races such as marathons?  What about at the gym or out for a walk?  Let’s hear your opinion!  Make a comment and be entered to win these wonderful DVD’s!  Winner will be picked at Random on October 20th at 9PM PST.

On the AM/PM Yoga:

Yoga is a wonderful way to help you keep fit, relieve stress, and ease your everyday experiences. Filmed on a beautifully serene location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, these two 30-minute programs will help you realize all the benefits of yoga by unveiling a new connection between your body and mind. The AM sequence enhances basic poses with gentle repetitions to invigorate, tone, and streamline your body while reconnecting to your breathing in a new way every time you practice. The PM sequence in designed to dissolve stress as it lengthens and opens your muscles. You’ll learn to use your alignment to expand your breathing capacity, nourishing your body and balancing your entire being.

On the Pilates for Weight Loss:

Pilates can transform your body in a way no gym equipment can match. Filmed on a breathtaking location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this dynamic beginner’s workout is designed to maximize calorie burn while teaching you the basics of Pilates. With a combination of Pilates-conscious cardio and mat Pilates, this sequence uses the principles of control, concentration, precision, center, breath, and fluidity to help you sculpt a new shape. The gentle, low impact exercises will strengthen and tone your whole body to develop a slimmer, leaner bodyline.

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Tags: contests · Running

144 responses so far ↓

  • 1 S // Oct 16, 2008 at 4:16 am

    I can see where people do not pay attention to what is going on with the ipods- on the other hand they are very relaxing and soothing and change the mental state- but for safety maybe one ear in – one out – they need to learn to be more attentive if they are gonna have them in

  • 2 bobbi // Oct 16, 2008 at 4:35 am

    you know me I love me some music. I don’t like to hear myself breath and my feet hit the ground. I love hearing up beat music, gets me going faster, and running harder. Win I teach kickboxing I blare it!

    bobbis last blog post..And the Hunger is ON!

  • 3 Deborah R // Oct 16, 2008 at 7:16 am

    If you’re running/working out/etc. solo, then it’s fine to wear your ipod. But if you’ve gone to do these things with a friend…leave the ipod at home.

  • 4 karissa // Oct 16, 2008 at 7:38 am

    I think Ipods are great. they can keep you focused and put great music in your ears and mind which means a healthy beat and rhythm that if you can get in sync with then you are all set! that goes for the gym or for a marathon! I don’t always think listening to one CD is best, put some upbeat music on, make a playlist and roll that way. If you don’t know how, enlist help. nothing is worse then slow music coming on when you are at peak performing level!

  • 5 karissa // Oct 16, 2008 at 7:39 am

    oh crap no one wins at comment one!

  • 6 ky2here // Oct 16, 2008 at 9:40 am

    I love my ipod and see no problem with it at the gym or for a serious event. It’s a tool for focus.

  • 7 Carol // Oct 16, 2008 at 10:04 am

    I have no problem with people using their Ipods anywhere at all.

  • 8 Lance // Oct 16, 2008 at 10:15 am

    Well, Rachel…my big race has been a 5K (I’m a slacker compared to you!!). I don’t use an Ipod during these races, because of exactly what you have described – I want to be present in the moments during the race. When I run at home, I almost always wear an Ipod. For bigger races…hmmm…I’m not sure. My inclination is to not wear an Ipod, but then…it is a long race…and music does help. That’s a tough one…and one I have a hard time with just because I’ve never run in a long distance race.

  • 9 adrienne Gordon // Oct 16, 2008 at 11:08 am

    it helos pace me and motivate me to run faster. I hate not being able to wear one during races as I train with it all the time.

  • 10 Marlene // Oct 16, 2008 at 11:12 am

    I say leave the IPOD’s at home during events such as races. It just seems disrespectful and childish. But when you’re working out at the gym or running for yourself, keep jamming!

  • 11 Kathy Scott // Oct 16, 2008 at 11:43 am

    Everyone has been telling me to try Pilates, so this would be my chance.

  • 12 david basile // Oct 16, 2008 at 11:45 am

    i like have a ipod on but you have to be aware of what is going on around you

  • 13 Susan C // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:29 pm

    I think it’s kind of rude to use an ipod if you’re running with a friend, but if you’re by yourself-go for it!

  • 14 Christine // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:30 pm

    I think it could be dangerous using an iPod during a race or marathon; you really need to be aware of all obstacles. As for the gym or out on your own, if it makes it more enjoyable, it’s great. Would love to try pilates, thank you for the contest!

  • 15 Lori L. // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:31 pm

    After using one while walking, it would be impossible to give up. I don’t think I could walk properly without it. Besides, it’s the only time I can get away from ‘Wheels on the Bus’ and ‘I’m a Little Teapot.’

    Lori L.s last blog post..Pasta, Chicken and Veggies… and so it goes

  • 16 Damla Kayihan // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:34 pm

    I listen to music with IPOD especially on the bus, and it’s a good idea to listen at gym.

  • 17 Steph // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:40 pm

    Personally, I think its OK to run/walk/whatever, with an iPod as long as you are aware of your surroundings. Unfortuantely, they aren’t allowed in many races anymore, regardless if your a competitive athlete or not.

  • 18 Amy Tucker // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:50 pm

    I think it is a great way to focus and concentrate on yourself!

  • 19 Carol // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:53 pm

    This is exactly what I need to get started on the road to good health. I am going to bring my couch potato husband on the road to health and exercise with me. Pilates is what is needed. Thanks

  • 20 workout mommy // Oct 16, 2008 at 1:57 pm

    Every time I have tried to run with music, I end up fiddling with it and spending way too much time and energy on it. I also love the peace and quiet of running, something I do not get at home! :)

  • 21 Melissa B. // Oct 16, 2008 at 2:24 pm

    If the music is not so loud that you can’t hear what’s going on around you, then I would say it’s okay.

  • 22 Rhonda Struthers // Oct 16, 2008 at 2:40 pm

    I think used in a safe environment, music is great. It takes the mind off the distance to go.

  • 23 Melinda Toungette // Oct 16, 2008 at 2:47 pm

    I love using my IPOD. The music I have is upbeat and it keeps me moving and in rhythm.I also have music on mine that I can sing too.

  • 24 Jill Will Run // Oct 16, 2008 at 3:04 pm

    I wear my iPod when I run, so I can record my stats with Nike+. When I run with friends I usually have the volume down super low so it doesn’t matter. When I run by myself, I only have one earbud in because I want to make sure I hear what is happening around me.

  • 25 MARY ENOS // Oct 16, 2008 at 3:16 pm

    Anything that works is great. If an iPOD helps you to stay focused, why not?

  • 26 Linda // Oct 16, 2008 at 3:19 pm

    Great if that’s what it takes to keep you exercising and healthy

  • 27 Jennifer B. // Oct 16, 2008 at 3:36 pm

    I wouldn’t use an I-Pod at a race, but I don’t mind using one when I walk in my neighborhood. It helps me keep going by distracting me.

  • 28 Mia J. // Oct 16, 2008 at 4:08 pm

    I don’t have an ipod but I think it is great for workouts and running. I think it would be very motivational.

  • 29 Vicky Boackle // Oct 16, 2008 at 4:22 pm

    i think it helps you get through a workout.

  • 30 Autumn H. // Oct 16, 2008 at 4:37 pm

    I don’t see any problem with people using an ipod. There is no way to “cheat” in a marathon like in a test (you could be afraid they were listening to the answers) — if an ipod gives them strength and endurance to run the marathon or even just a workout – good!
    autumn398 (at) yahoo.com

  • 31 Tarah // Oct 16, 2008 at 5:17 pm

    I find that when I’m listening to fast paced music I push myself harder and last longer than I would without music.

    Tarahs last blog post..Apple Slump

  • 32 Julianne // Oct 16, 2008 at 5:20 pm

    I think IPODs are a wonderful idea and if they inspire people, they should be used, but with caution. I just think they should only be in one ear and not too loud. As a former victim of a violent crime by a stranger…I think people need to be VERY AWARE of their surroundings at all times when out in a public place.

  • 33 susan varney // Oct 16, 2008 at 8:17 pm

    love to it makes my workout seem to go faster

  • 34 Karen Gonyea // Oct 16, 2008 at 8:38 pm

    I use my Ipod all of the time. It’s just music……..

  • 35 Erica C. // Oct 16, 2008 at 8:52 pm

    I’d love to try pilates…I don’t think Ipods should be used in marathons, but they are great for the gym!

  • 36 raych // Oct 16, 2008 at 8:58 pm

    During a race, I might not because it’s a big, exciting deal. Training for a race? Working out? On the bus? These things are boring, and the iPod helps make them less so. On the other hand, if anyone outside of your ears can hear your music, you NEED to turn it down.

    raychs last blog post..Excitement and embarassment

  • 37 Alicia Zemer // Oct 16, 2008 at 9:02 pm

    pilate

  • 38 David // Oct 16, 2008 at 9:14 pm

    Nothing wrong with using an ipod, it can be motivational to listen to some good music. Thanks.

  • 39 Tiffany // Oct 16, 2008 at 9:32 pm

    My IPOD REALLY helps me out. I love trail running and I don”t like the IPOD once I hit the trail (unless it is a borning trail or a trail I run all of the time). The IPOD helps me with the borning street running.

    The other day I went for a long run and it was the BEST run of my life. It was wonderful, I was running faster than I normally do and I felt great. I was still feeling that running high that evening. It was such a great run I even blogged about it here: http://colorado-mama.blogspot.com/2008/10/best-run-of-my-life.html
    And the reason I like this was the best run was that I started on out a great, heart pumping, rocking song that really got me going.

    Tiffanys last blog post..Birthday Weekend

  • 40 kch // Oct 16, 2008 at 9:36 pm

    I do use an iPod – sometimes – when I’m training. But when racing – never. My reasons are pretty much the same as what others have mentioned: I can tune into my body better, make sure that I’m aware of my surroundings, and really experience all the event has to offer. Also, I find most of the time that I run faster without the iPod.

    That said, if someone else wants to race ‘plugged in’ it doesn’t bother me, as long as their volume is low enough that they can hear what’s going on around them so they don’t create a hazard for themselves or others.

    kchs last blog post..Last High Mileage Week

  • 41 sweetscove // Oct 16, 2008 at 10:13 pm

    I don’t see any issues with using an ipod at the gym. But, for events or outdoor activities it should be used at a minimum. If only for safety reasons. Most people play theirs too loudly to hear what is going on around them.

  • 42 Debi // Oct 16, 2008 at 10:18 pm

    I think it is a good tool for motiviation and to help you “zen” out while exercising.

  • 43 Susan H // Oct 16, 2008 at 10:56 pm

    I think anybody should be able to use an ipod anytime they are exercising if they want to.

  • 44 Mary M // Oct 16, 2008 at 11:05 pm

    I don’t see any problem. It can help you “push” a little harder and focus you on what you’re doing.

  • 45 Jill Miller // Oct 17, 2008 at 12:21 am

    I think using an Ipod is a personal preference….as long as it is not so loud that others can hear it, and you pay attention if you’re walking or biking outdoors.

  • 46 runlikeagirl // Oct 17, 2008 at 1:30 am

    I sometimes run with an iPod on longer runs (10+ miles). *BUT* I am very aware of my surrounding and responsible. I’m also very picky about headphones – I need to be able to hear the sound of my foot hitting the ground or someone coming up behind me. I listen to my music low enough to be able to carry on a conversation with those around me. While I respect and even participate in races that completely ban iPods, there are some tactics I do not agree with. One of our local races goes so far as to give cameras to all volunteers so that they can take pictures of those wearing headphones *AND* will go through all finish line photos looking for anyone wearing headphones. Any of the above results in a 3 year ban from those events. Is that really necessary?

    runlikeagirls last blog post..I’m doing laundry…

  • 47 Angie P // Oct 17, 2008 at 2:10 am

    I love my iPod. I think that as long as you are paying attention to what’s going on around you, it’s fine to use when you are running.

  • 48 Fit Mommy // Oct 17, 2008 at 3:46 am

    @runlikeagirl- wow, that’s extreme. sounds like a witch hunt to me.
    @Tiffany- love your spirit!
    @Julianne made a very important comment about not using IPODS so that you are aware of your surroundings!
    @workout mommy- I too mess with it too much! easier to bike with it in my garage.

  • 49 Christie // Oct 17, 2008 at 5:43 am

    I say it’s fine. Why not? So long as you can other sounds around you, for your own safety.

  • 50 R Hicks // Oct 17, 2008 at 5:59 am

    I use my ipod all the time while exercising!

  • 51 Jean H // Oct 17, 2008 at 6:48 am

    I don’t have any problem with anyone using an IPOD anywhere, but I have to admit that it’s hard to make eye contact or meet people when they are absorbed with their music or workout at the gym. Thanks for this chance to win.

  • 52 Rudella Custer // Oct 17, 2008 at 12:23 pm

    I have to say only use an IPOD if you can still pay attention to traffic and such. Sometimes if I know I will be in heavier traffic than usual I use only one earbud so my other ear is free to hear my surroundings. When I’m walking or jogging with my son in his stroller, I use my Verizon juke and let the music come from it’s outer speaker rather than the headphones!

  • 53 Kara from MamaSweat // Oct 17, 2008 at 3:56 pm

    I prefer to run to the sounds of nature. That is a preference, but when I first started running I got grabbed on the ass by a man who came up from behind me. Scared me good. I was glad that was all that happened but I stopped putting anything in my ears that would keep me from hearing/being aware of my surroundings. Plus, I’m with workout mommy–I fiddle with it too much to make it enjoyable!

    Kara from MamaSweats last blog post..End of an Era, Not a Friendship

  • 54 Evelyn // Oct 17, 2008 at 4:06 pm

    If you jack it up with lots of winning fight songs why not

  • 55 Cherie J // Oct 17, 2008 at 6:26 pm

    I don’t have a problem with it as long as the person will still be able to keep an eye out for traffic and other obstacles. I would hate for someone to endanger themselves through distraction.

  • 56 Stephen Saunders // Oct 17, 2008 at 7:18 pm

    hmm… never had an ipod, can’t really have an opinion on it.

    Stephen Saunderss last blog post..I like this…

  • 57 Meredith Rowe // Oct 17, 2008 at 7:56 pm

    I see nothing wrong with using an ipod during a marathon.

  • 58 Noelia Gutierrez // Oct 18, 2008 at 1:27 am

    I think that if the Ipod helps you concentrate and run better then it should not be a problem.

  • 59 Annette Gallagher // Oct 18, 2008 at 2:24 am

    Time flies and one can practically guage distance and time by plowing through the playlists!

  • 60 Ashley // Oct 18, 2008 at 3:04 am

    i don’t really see anything wrong with using an ipod in a marathon or just exercising. I don’t see where it really provides any significant advantage or disadvantage

  • 61 Jennifer Jozwiak // Oct 18, 2008 at 3:22 am

    I like having music, it helps me stay motivated.

  • 62 Brooke Allen // Oct 18, 2008 at 4:08 am

    Why not?

    Brooke Allens last blog post..A Revisit to the Forgotten Man

  • 63 Anne // Oct 18, 2008 at 5:15 am

    I have both positive and negative feelings about using an ipod during any physical sport.

    In one way, I totally agree that the music could take you away mentally and give you momentum and confidence.

    On the other hand, you may not be listening to your body and its aches and pains; or you may miss out on meeting your new best friend working out/running beside you!

    Thanks for a great giveaway!

  • 64 Janet F // Oct 18, 2008 at 9:20 am

    I take my iPod with me on my fitness walks.

    It keeps me motivated.

    janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com

  • 65 alison // Oct 18, 2008 at 1:59 pm

    I love my iPod. I can’t imagine a ban!

  • 66 Debra Ford // Oct 19, 2008 at 1:15 am

    I can’t work out with my Ipod!! So much better than the old Walkmans.

    Thanks for the giveaway.

  • 67 Kathleen Root // Oct 19, 2008 at 2:01 am

    anything that keeps you going is okay in my book.

  • 68 Debbie // Oct 19, 2008 at 2:32 am

    I hate to admit it, but when it comes to a road race, I’m not very socialable. I’m focused on my pace and making my time goal. If it’s a long race – which is a half-marathon for me – I find that listenting to music is essential to helping me maintain my pace.

    Debbies last blog post..Blogs for Women Runners

  • 69 Stacy // Oct 19, 2008 at 3:40 am

    I dont think I would like to work out without it.

  • 70 C Duran // Oct 19, 2008 at 3:50 am

    I personally don’t like wearing an ipod for any outdoor activities. I like to take in my surroundings.

    C Durans last blog post..Freebie Friday with Free Stuff, Contests & Deals

  • 71 Jessica // Oct 19, 2008 at 8:41 am

    I’ve never participated in a marathon, but I think it wouldn’t be fair in such an environment compared to just going to the gym or running by yourself.

  • 72 Jessica H // Oct 19, 2008 at 11:33 am

    I think they’re absolutely crucial-what feels like an hour only feels like 10 minutes if I have music to keep me motivated. I could never work out without music.

  • 73 Janice Wright // Oct 19, 2008 at 2:30 pm

    I think they are okay at the gym. I think they should be used with caution when out on the street; you’re not going to hear your surroundings: dogs, traffic or muggers. I don’t have an opinion when it comes to marathons.

  • 74 katie gardini // Oct 19, 2008 at 2:35 pm

    Honestly, I do not think iPods should be allowed during Marathons at all because they could be a hazard somehow and it may help people concentrate better and it should be a all fair advantage with everyone. Not everyone wants to have speakers next to their ears nor can all afford one so it isn’t fair. When at the gym and walking it is perfectly fair. Thank you!

  • 75 Heather Sebastian // Oct 19, 2008 at 4:07 pm

    I think using an IPOD for both is great. Whatever will help you stay focused and have fun! I use my IPOD whenever I’m doing any exercise and it helps me work out longer.

  • 76 lorene // Oct 19, 2008 at 4:23 pm

    I have an ipod but, I don’t really use it while running

  • 77 Huguette E. // Oct 19, 2008 at 5:46 pm

    I think using an ipod is a great idea, music always gets me going.

  • 78 Pamela Ray // Oct 19, 2008 at 5:51 pm

    I don’t see a problem with using a iPod.
    Music is a excellent way to get into the zone.

  • 79 Karen E // Oct 19, 2008 at 7:10 pm

    An ipod is great for any type of exercise that doesn’t require counting or following directions.

  • 80 Elizabeth M. // Oct 19, 2008 at 7:15 pm

    I truly couldn’t care less if someone wants to run with or without an ipod. It’s such a personal decision that I don’t even think I should waste a second thinking about it. (However, if we’re talking about it possibly affecting someone’s safety because of the distraction…well, there’s some merit to that argument.)

  • 81 Carla Pullum // Oct 19, 2008 at 7:35 pm

    Ipods give me inspiration when I am running! If I don’t have one then I start wanting to give up!

  • 82 Jill Spackman // Oct 19, 2008 at 7:49 pm

    I think I-pods are great at the gym. Certain types of music keep you motivated. I would use one if I had one. It is on my wish list.

  • 83 Amy Butler // Oct 19, 2008 at 8:04 pm

    I think ipods are perfectly fine for races and at the gym. It doesn’t matter if you have music or not, you still might not be fully concentrating on what your doing, you could be thinking of something else. And for some people, music is a big distraction, so it’s really based on the individual,not the mass.

  • 84 Kimberly // Oct 19, 2008 at 9:13 pm

    I personally do not wear anything that impairs my hearing when I’m walking/hiking/biking outdoors. I want to be able to hear what is going on around me. Just a couple of weeks ago I nearly ran over some idiot who rode her bike right across the intersection without even looking where she was going (she was on the street with the stop sign and I was driving on the street that had no traffic control device). If I had hit her I would have felt terrible but it would have been her own fault because she was paying more attention to her iPod than to her surroundings.

  • 85 Linda Moeller // Oct 19, 2008 at 10:41 pm

    I don’t for the same reason above…it impairs your hearing and some of our places have no sidewalks so you have to be able to hear.
    If you’re working out with someone else, I think it’s kind of rude. I’d rather just talk to the person!

  • 86 christopher h // Oct 19, 2008 at 10:42 pm

    i see no problem with it

  • 87 Jennifer hedden // Oct 20, 2008 at 12:04 am

    I think it would be good to use ipod during marothnos

  • 88 Theresa Molesky // Oct 20, 2008 at 1:05 am

    An ipod is a great tool to help keep you motivated on the treadmill.

  • 89 Helen // Oct 20, 2008 at 2:30 am

    I’m against using an iPod during marathons only because the focus needs to be on the race and it’s far too easy to get distracted when there is a large group of runners around. But I think it’s good to use it at the gym or out for a walk as long as it doesn’t keep you too distracted as it would be easy for someone to attack you while you’re distracted. A friend of a friend was killed by a car when she was running with her iPod.

  • 90 Nannette Ryan // Oct 20, 2008 at 3:08 am

    I like using an Ipod and feel it gives me the added boost to keep going

  • 91 Jennelle Henderson // Oct 20, 2008 at 3:20 am

    I did a marathon a few years ago with Team and Training and our coach forbid us from using ipods etc while training or during races. I think the music would have helped me though. It helps me get into a rhythm and keeps going.

  • 92 Hesper Fry // Oct 20, 2008 at 3:27 am

    Ipods are great to keep you going when walking/running

  • 93 Tracie Armendariz // Oct 20, 2008 at 3:27 am

    If you are by yourself it is great. I find it helps me establish a good rhythm and also pumps me up.

  • 94 Erica // Oct 20, 2008 at 4:22 am

    I agree that an iPod during a marathon can be detrimental. However, music is a great motivator when working out at a gym as that environment can be rather dull.

  • 95 Barbara Hunt // Oct 20, 2008 at 4:43 am

    It’s a fantastic idea….anything that will help motivate!

  • 96 Samantha Pruitt // Oct 20, 2008 at 5:05 am

    i think if ur outside in a safe environment it’s fine, like sometimes i’ll go running around my enclosed apartment complex, so i know it’s safe. I’m not so sure about running on the street, you might not be able to hear the cars around you.

    I think if ur in a safe area and by yourself than go for it! if ur with someone or some place where there is a lot of traffic, than it’s probably not a good idea, it’s rude and unsafe!

  • 97 Joy Venters // Oct 20, 2008 at 6:34 am

    It can help you concentrate on the goal at hand

  • 98 Ruthann Rhodes // Oct 20, 2008 at 11:56 am

    I actually think it’s a bit dangerous to listen while running outside. You need to keep your focus on the run and your surroundings.

  • 99 Angie P. // Oct 20, 2008 at 11:58 am

    I think running with music on can distract you from focusing on your surroundings. I see it as a safety issue. Now, if you’re running your regular route in the neighborhood and have the music low enough to be able to still hear cars, etc., then that seems fine. In a big race, though? No.

  • 100 Jennifer C // Oct 20, 2008 at 12:14 pm

    I use it at home working out and when I take a walk around my neighborhood, but I don’t use it at the gym since there is usually already other music and noise, I’d have to have it up too loud to hear it.

  • 101 Jen Smith // Oct 20, 2008 at 12:39 pm

    Anything to keep the inspiration and focus going!

  • 102 Amy Griffin // Oct 20, 2008 at 1:04 pm

    I don’t see anything wrong with it either way. I think it is a personal preference. Personally, when I am training really hard I prefer to go without my IPOD, I save it for casual jogging or walking.

  • 103 Joan B // Oct 20, 2008 at 1:17 pm

    I don’t know because I am a senior citizen and can’t afford one. I walk and see a lot of people with them and they seem to enjoy it.

  • 104 Kathleen Walker // Oct 20, 2008 at 1:29 pm

    very nice to have something to listen to while excercising, but then again very dangerous that you can nor hear what is around you

  • 105 joan olson // Oct 20, 2008 at 1:40 pm

    I only have a zune and it is much to big to run with but can use when using exerscise equipment. I love it -I plan to get a small IPod because music makes me forget how tired I am pumps me up and makes me run even faster.

  • 106 Nanette Olson // Oct 20, 2008 at 2:40 pm

    This is a great idea. I say anything that works.

  • 107 Laura G // Oct 20, 2008 at 3:30 pm

    no ipods during a marathon – it takes you out of the moment…i use mine while walking, jogging and running the trails in our back yard with our dogs or while working out here at home by myself. Don’t use a gym, but I can see where you might want to use on there to drown out the noise of everyone else, lol

  • 108 Kari Follett // Oct 20, 2008 at 3:45 pm

    I’d love this, thanks for the chance!

  • 109 Darlene Wetzel // Oct 20, 2008 at 3:46 pm

    Absolutely, if it keeps you motivated to get up and move then I’m all for it

  • 110 Barbara Baker // Oct 20, 2008 at 4:28 pm

    I don’t use anything when walking…too many cars and drivers that don’t pay attention to you. Now, working out at home is another story…I use it religiously; especially when walking on my eliptical trainer.

  • 111 tanya // Oct 20, 2008 at 4:30 pm

    I am all for music being allowed during races. I can’t run without my ipod. Ok, I can, but not for as long or as fast. Runners are still very much aware of what’s going on around them.

  • 112 Catherine KingChuparkoff // Oct 20, 2008 at 4:55 pm

    I think they are wonderful in a gym or home exercise environment, but could be dangerous when exercising outside and not being aware of your environment.

  • 113 Catharine McElwain // Oct 20, 2008 at 5:13 pm

    Ok, but for safety, should only use a one piece earplug, this leaves one
    ear open to listen to what is happening around you.

  • 114 kathy // Oct 20, 2008 at 5:27 pm

    I think ipods during a race would help the runner stayed focus. When you need to pay attention to your surroundings – not so good.

  • 115 Kayce C // Oct 20, 2008 at 5:30 pm

    As long as the music is not distracting to you or others, I think iPods are fine.

  • 116 Susanne Troop // Oct 20, 2008 at 6:01 pm

    I think listening to the ipod makes the time past faster!

  • 117 Regina // Oct 20, 2008 at 6:20 pm

    Helps me to keep going.

  • 118 Becca Okaneko // Oct 20, 2008 at 6:27 pm

    I love using my ipod at the gym, but safety isn’t really an issue there. If there is a safety issue with ipods and races, it might be best to have safety rules about them for the races.

    Becca Okanekos last blog post..Sunday’s Etsy Shop Review – Mood Wax

  • 119 leloni // Oct 20, 2008 at 6:54 pm

    I think Ipods should be allowed, as it allows the athletes to have something else to focus on, i.e, music, rather than pain or being tired as a result of their activity.

  • 120 Brenda // Oct 20, 2008 at 6:55 pm

    I don’t think that I could keep going without my ipod. The music doesn’t have to be that loud so that you could hear if anything was going on around you.

  • 121 Mariann Hudson // Oct 20, 2008 at 7:01 pm

    I think having an iPod would be relaxing – and if in a race, then you don’t ‘need’ to be paying all that much attention to what is going on around you – you’re on a well-marked course. Plus, people rarely have them so loud as to not hear something truly important.

    Thank you for the opportunity to get these – I am a morbidly obese mom of 5 who really could use it!

  • 122 Michelle H. // Oct 20, 2008 at 7:06 pm

    I think it depends on the person and if they are able to stay aware of their surrondings. What works for one person may not work for another.

  • 123 Terri L // Oct 20, 2008 at 7:36 pm

    I love using an ipod for walking and working out but do feel sort of unsafe when I use it outside when I am alone. I don’t feel like I am aware enough of my surroundings. I don’t have an opinion about big events such as marathons.

  • 124 Becky Grady // Oct 20, 2008 at 7:42 pm

    If an Ipod helps you keep pace, go for it. I love using mine when I run. If the rules allow it, I don’t see why you shouldn’t use one in a race, as long as it can be done safely. Of course, you should keep the volume low enough to hear your surroundings.

  • 125 Casey Becher // Oct 20, 2008 at 7:53 pm

    I think you should be able to wear your ipod while running a marathon. Having the right beat of music could help you keep the pace that you want.

  • 126 Jeanette H. // Oct 20, 2008 at 8:12 pm

    I think iPods are great for exercising or working out, whether walking a marthon or just out for a walk.

  • 127 ~JEWEL~ // Oct 20, 2008 at 9:02 pm

    I think using iPods while working out is great! I know for me it helps keep me motivated and I actually work out longer.

  • 128 michelle stewart // Oct 20, 2008 at 9:44 pm

    cool prize

  • 129 kathy pease // Oct 20, 2008 at 9:49 pm

    hell yea use it i think ipods are the greatest invention :)

  • 130 Zoe Lee // Oct 20, 2008 at 10:09 pm

    I always workout with my ipod, i have a special mix on it with workout high pumping music, and it makes me work harder…I am all for it!! Thanks for the fab contest…Z

  • 131 bill bona // Oct 20, 2008 at 10:46 pm

    GOT TO USE POD OR CAN’T WORKOUT ,MAKE ME GO FASTER

  • 132 kerri // Oct 20, 2008 at 11:01 pm

    i definetley need a ipod when i workout it really motivates me

  • 133 Sarah Hansen // Oct 20, 2008 at 11:08 pm

    They are great for training but not for racing.

  • 134 Dawn Yates // Oct 20, 2008 at 11:42 pm

    I would think the Ipods are for solitary activities – working out alone, walking alone. If I work out or walk with someone, I want to listen/talk.

  • 135 Lily Kwan // Oct 21, 2008 at 12:21 am

    I think it’s okay to use an iPod while you’re working out by yourself.

  • 136 Kelly S // Oct 21, 2008 at 12:53 am

    I use my ipod inside and on walks around my sidewalked block only. While biking and running outside you really need to be aware or your surrounding and your body because you can be hurt way too quickly.

  • 137 Sarah Z // Oct 21, 2008 at 1:58 am

    Listening to music makes the time go by so much faster – I can see the point though of not using it in a race!

  • 138 Holly // Oct 21, 2008 at 2:26 am

    I love my IPOD when I workout. But you do need to be careful with them when out on the “open road” I see lots of people who get the IPOD in and are not paying attention to their surroundings and have an accident of some sort.

  • 139 Heather C // Oct 21, 2008 at 2:47 am

    I think if you find a song with a great beat that keeps you on pace, ipods are great. However, I would only use them on treadmills and closed-road races. Otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for runner tragedy.

  • 140 Erica G // Oct 21, 2008 at 2:55 am

    I would have to say that I would need the ipod to run a long race. I think the gym would also be fine as long as you are still paying attention to others around you. I don’t think they are so safe if you are running or walking alone anywhere outside. I want to be able to hear if someone is approaching me if possible.

  • 141 Timothy Sternberg // Oct 21, 2008 at 2:56 am

    I can see where people do not pay attention to what is going on with the ipods.

  • 142 Sierra // Oct 21, 2008 at 4:12 am

    Yes, I totally think they should be legal for any walking/jogging/running events! They are such a good motivational tool!

  • 143 Donna K // Oct 21, 2008 at 4:18 am

    Ipod is a good idea.

  • 144 Jennifer M // Oct 21, 2008 at 5:20 am

    When running, I prefer to listen to music, but I do have a fear of not noticing/hearing something important and it being unsafe.

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