One question beginner runners ask themselves has been should I run with music or without it? There are people on both sides of the question. The runners who call themselves "true"or "purest" to running will say you're cheating yourself, while the other side says "I can't imagine running without my music". For myself there are times I run without music but other times I run with it.

Something to keep in mind though is that there are some races that do not allow the participants to listen to music. They claim it's for safety but most runners I talk to and myself included is it is not a hindrance when running. Maybe it's those "true" runners who are running the race and are playing their tricks on the rest of us. The governing body in running, the USATF (USA Track & Field) actually bans the use of headphones in sanctioned events where the runner is going for a prize. The elite runner has to worry about such things as breathing patterns, foot strikes and pace. Music can throw them off. There are even some races that won't have such things as music out on the course so it won't mess with the elite runner. So unless you're going to be an elite runner most of the times you can run with your music.

I've found myself running without music at times when I've had a hard day at work and I just need some time to just mellow out. Other times after a hard day I just need something to get me going. Music can do this for me. Overall I do run with music. Another reason I have run without music is just in case I do a race that doesn't allow it. I want to know how my body reacts and what I need to do to finish. Those darn "true" runners.

My I-Pod has quite a different mixture of music on it. I'm sure most do. What I've done is to separate the music into fast pace and slow pace. There are times I need the extra push so I'll put my fast pace music on. Other times I need to just relax and think (this is rare but it does happens). You may want to do this also.

So whatever your preference is, it's yours and go with it. Just remember you may not be able to ALWAYS listen to your music so train for that also.

Now go out and have a good run.