To be crystal clear: I don’t think anyone is a fool! Intended entirely as tongue and cheek to start a discussion (just in case British sarcasm is lost in translation to anyone) 🤙🏼
felt bad recently. left the house last night with no aim, ended up running 10 miles in the dark, stars out, very peacful and the pain i feel today gives me something to focus on
@@Andy-ss8yg Don’t judge yourself by how far you can run compared to others. Only compare yourself to yourself. If you could run a mile yesterday and ten miles today that’s INSANE progress, you know? Plus, even short runs are healthy and good for reflection. Length is not the only marker of success. You can also ask yourself, was the run relaxing/fun/reflective/interesting/did you do the run at all? Just doing the run at all is a big deal! So many people don’t even begin the run… I’m amongst them as an aspiring runner. My personal goal is just to run… at all. I’m not going to compare myself to others, just to myself the day before. If I run 30 feet today, that’s a great improvement over yesterday, you know? I hope you are doing ok and can find peace and support in whatever you’re going through ❤
It's soon going to be a year since I made the decision to stop running without headphones. My life changed completely honestly... There is more freedom from being aware of the present moment during a run. The biggest thing it taught me however is how to fully face my problems as a teenager entering adulthood. During a 20+K trail run by yourself without anything but a backpack of water, I experienced a lot of moments of crisis and I never had my phone with me so the only way for me to get through was to start relying on myself to get me through the next mile. And boy, everytime I get through a critical moment during my run, there is just silence...and in todays world that is the biggest gift one could find🙏.
I took up running about 1 year ago and not once have I ran listening to music, podcasts, etc. When I started to run, I had the long term goal of running an ultra. From all the research I did on ultras, I knew it would be a mental battle more than physical one. So I decided to start mentally training as I started physically training. Just me and my thoughts for hours on end :)
I love the flow of this video, great editing and storytelling!I totally agree that runners need to learn to be independent from headphones and running without headphones also allows us to appreciate the reflective side of distance running. Having said that I also love to listen to long form podcasts or audiobooks on my long runs as it is one of the few moments I have to commit to longer recordings.
I’ve done consistent 50 mile weeks for the last 4 months now and I’ve done 90% of them headphoned. This past two week I’ve done them all without headphones, has been such a game changer it’s changing my whole thought processes during running & I feel at one with myself, not using the headphones to escape the discomfort. Is mint
Couldn’t agree more. Like you said in a recent podcast, it opens up a certain level of reflection/rational thinking which sometimes you can’t quite unlock without that gentle stressor.
Agree, haven’t been using headphones for a long time where I think it pays a big difference to not wear them is when running to a heart rate zone, miles easier to control your breath when you can hear yourself.
Thanks for making this video, perfect timing too! I appreciate the points you made, I’m going to start a light run today after not doing it for a long time and I’ve always included my earphone/ music. I’m going to not include them this time and focus on bettering myself and run and enjoying the natural surrounding. Thanks!
Brilliant video - I’m my experience headphones have their place when you need them for “full send” from time to time as a bit of a mental boost. But especially for zone two work I find I can be “at peace” with myself without them and enjoy the long run experience. I find tempo runs are better without too so I can concentrate on my breathing especially when it starts to get tough
I got my meniscus torn last summer and now I'm getting back to walk. When I start to run again I might consider your advice! Super looking forward to running either with or without music :D
When Goggins says No, the only answer should be Roger that ;) Well, my reasoning for not wearing headphones has always been safety issues. I mean I cannot feel safe wearing headphones even in my own room. Openbacks and only one ear for Tws, that's it. Another reason was one I accidentally discovered some time back- I had barely slept 3 hours, it was cold af outside and my sickness that I've been pushing through for the runs whole week just got worse. Every excuse I could think of was right there telling me I can sleep in for today. But right then, I saw my wireless buds lying there on the table and went "Today you can listen to your fav playlist the whole run, the whole freakin run. Deal?" And immediately my mood just went through the roof! it was honestly among the easiest runs I had in a long while. I was actually blown away by my own mood shift lol. So yeah, abstaining from it can be a real clutch in your worst days.
I gave up running with headphones 2 or 3 months back and I think you're right, I think it does build resilience. Like you, I enjoy the time to reflect, let my brain drift and generally spend time that way. I read something a few years back that said in the modern world our brains aren't getting the time they need to day dream and be aimless in the way they once did, so if that's true, I think that's a benefit of not wearing them, too. I went back to headphones briefly for a treadmill run recently when I needed the extra kick and distraction for a long indoor run, but generally speaking, I don't think I'll be going back to them. Even on a treadmill these days my running mind goes into a meditative state that works for me.
Music is just another external stimulus, don’t become dependent it to perform because you can’t use it in your races! Although I do think it’s fun to enjoy some music or a podcast during a run every now and then :)
I run trails exclusively and I know I'm lucky to have woods and trails nearby. I love running without headphones and listening to the world around me and my body. My senses are always at their most heightened when I'm running. That said if I had to run roads I'd probably want headphones to drown out the awful car engine noise.
Great points! I always dreaded running without my headphones... Until I forgot them and it turns out running without them isn't that bad! I stopped using them regularly for a while and I can now definitely see a noticeable boost in energy when I do use them so I 100% agree with the video.
As a runner and cyclist the main issue I've had is people running out in front of me on road or cycle paths as they don't hear me, also you get some bell ends running and having a loud conference call on their earpods which everyone in the street is treated to. Don't be a bell end
I went to the park and for some reason my music didn't work and it did make me want to not jog that day but I did it anyway and it was def harder to do but I pushed through it and it was awesome.
If I run in headphones I feel I have no contact or awareness of the world around me. On longer runs I prefer to enjoy the scenery, say hello to others out running or walking (especially if they are walking a dog and say hello to them too). I have a greater awareness of my breathing and ultimately like to use the flow of air through the body as a soundtrack to base my pacing against (and a Garmin helps too). Took me a while to transition away from headphones but part of my reason to run more is to get outside and enjoy the outside more, therefore, interact with it as much as I can.
I run with headphones but have considered to stop ever since I getting chased by a coyote without noticing...or the few times I almost got hit by a car. Better to be fully aware of your surroundings with all 5 senses.
I find it super hard to keep my cadence natural when I'm listening to music so I just leave the tunes out of it. I've been known to listen to podcasts on long runs alone in the city but sometimes that's just what I need. Wouldn't dream of it on the trail though
Mate - I thought running without headphones was bonkers. Music distracted from the pain of it all! But I gave it few goes after watching your video and it’s much easier to keep an eye on cadence and heart rate. I’m enjoying my runs more now. I blame you for that.
Run an hour a day. Been doing for years. Only used headphones in the early years. Once you lose them you never look back. Carrying a water bottle and using headphone is the easiest way to spot a part timer. Also you can hear the white van that's going to kill you, before it does and maybe get in the hedge.
These are fair reasons not to wear them but we are far from foolish for wearing them. For long runs I listen to long educational podcasts. Hard runs, I don't as I'm concentrating on working hard. I disliked you the moment you called us fools
Lol. That's funny. I don't know any guys that run so I can't use Strada to compare or compete with them. They are all couch potatoes except one or two but they don't run either. Just weights
Went through a challenging period in my life and started running ,within 6 weeks I ditched the headphones and clarity of thought ,awareness of my surroundings and concentration on my form became so evident,that was 10yrs ago,keep up the inspirational work
I stopped running with headphones after one day I was running down this country road like I always did. All of a sudden this strong smell of flowers being carried by the breeze just hit me. I looked over and notice that everyday I ran by this beautiful field with flowers but never noticed it. I took out my headphones and began to really take in the beauty of my surroundings on this trail/ road.
I could NEVER run without music. Ever. I an a musician and love my music. I took a friend up on a challenge to run without headphones for just one mile of my runs. I would incrementally work up and add an additional mile I would run without headphones each week for every run, and I have gotten to the point where I never use headphones. I’m at the point now, where I almost don’t understand how people run WITH headphones! Even though I used to be that person… it’s made me less stressed, it’s given me time to ponder and reflect on life. I look forward to every run now, because I get the chance to work on being more present, and in the moment - during the runs, but in a more general sense as well! Unplugging from the noise has been one of the best decisions to ever make😁it gets easier, I promise! It might just become your new favorite way to run
For me, it depends on my mood. Most times I'm in the mood for Death Metal, sometimes hip hop, sometimes Afrobeats and every now and then, a little classical music. Sometimes I just want to hear the sound of nature.
My thoughts for what they're worth 😊 I listen to audio books on my zone two runs. Helps to develop my mental focus which is something I struggle with. Agree with the beats making you go too fast, but for a shirt 5k or 10k spiky run or race that can be a good thing depends what you want from the session. But yes getting reflective time is good too. Especially on a nice clear day in a country lane or trail. Headphones I prefer if there's a lot of traffic noise as it just grates on me.
@@dsd6538 I feel like it is the only time of the day I am able to just process stuff. Working in front of a screen all day really makes me appreciate the time without any form of external stimulus. After some time it almost becomes transcendental (? if thats the right word 😅) to just hear my breathing and footsteps.
I've been running since I was 13 and since I was young and female when I started my mum made me promise not to listen to music, to keep safe in traffic + other attendant dangers. I haven't worn them since. I just don't feel the need to. I want to process my thoughts, not get run over, and I also know that I'd obsess over what to listen to too much to actually enjoy (or struggle through) my run.
1. I choose running songs based on consistent cadence based on the type of run I'm doing. 160-165 easy runs/170-175 tempo/180+track intervals. So, there's no way I inadvertently increase cadence or speed without wanting to. On the contrary I end up running too fast at times without any music whatsoever. Experienced it once when I forgot to charge my headphones. 2. I don't listen to music to escape my surroundings but enhance the entire experience. Like similar to how music can make or break a movie sort of thing. Running is like meditation to music for me while looking at everything. Basically, don't just pick your favorite songs. Pick songs based on the cadence first and foremost as the most important thing. I run to Eurobeat/Eurodance mixes and have a music sampling app that allows me to increase or decrease bpm (beat per minute similar to SPM step per minutes). I'm naturally hyperaware of my surrounding like everyone should be but you have people who I guess it's an issue even WITHOUT headphones as they'll bump into you walking towards you as if in their own little world. So, it's not the headphones but the individual wearing them. 3. The only time I can't reflect while running is when doing fast intervals on the track. Music in my ears never prevented me from thought. Just like watching this video with all the music and scenery and someone sharing their opinion allowing you to reflect. You can still reflect while he's talking, and you have all the scenery and music playing. I don't think music can distract me if I was depressed or wanting to tune a thought out. Pain/sudden accident I witness/stumbling upon a friend while out on a run/ect can tune me out of thoughts, but music no, it actually helps me focus on relaxing. Don't get me wrong thought I can't study with music at all lol. I get extremely distracted if running without headphones. I can't even stay on one thought. I can't find my zone to just flow. I think everyone is different. Some people are extroverts and love the chaotic influences of the outside as they run. I draw state from within, so the earphones and music put me in a meditative state. I'm not unfocused at all. See everything around me. Always look both ways before crossing and am extremely aware of the surroundings especially because I know I have earphones on.
Ran my first 10k race this weekend and did the first 4 miles with no headphones to save it for when I really needed it. I'll definitely be doing it more in training!
What I love about running without headphones is u can leave the phone in the house and get an hour away from the phone lol . Nobody to txt or phone you or distract you .
I got hit by a car. Driver's fault but always had the thought in the back of my mind whether I would have avoided it but for having headphones in. Never used them since.
Thanks for watching everyone! Don’t forget to like the video 👍🏼 and comment down below with your thoughts ⬇️ Please let me know how you feel about the shorter format/more informative video style too - would be great to have your feedback! STRAVA LINK: strava.app.link/ferguscrawleyYT
Personally think it's OK to listen to music for certain runs. Running is not like a set of squats, it ain't over in 90 seconds max. When time under tension is really not so great and you're dealing with an anaerobic activity then fine, blast the music and go all out. No runner who knows what they're doing will blast the first mile with the expectation of a 10K PR, it's an endurance sport. Personally I find listening to relaxing trance helps me run and doesn't make me do anything stupid, bursts of energy during long PR runs are terrible IMO. Once the HR goes too high can be a nightmare getting it to relax again into a nice tempo. I find Tritonia or Nora En Pure is pretty good for strong performances. No song is going to make up for being out of shape in distance, for trail running trance gets me into the "smooth is fast," mindset. Negative splits are very common at the collegiate and Olympic level. Just last week I listened to the wrong genre, was too aggressive and had the slowest final mile in months. Enough about me, enjoy your run today :)
90% of the time I run without headphones, Love just hearing what's going on around me or even just listening to my own thoughts. I always Like to run in the dark with no head light (not a good idea) But it just help's me really get in tune with my run and it's something I love doing.
I generally listen to a audiobook or podcast using only one earbud while running. I like the ability to learn while also getting exercise but you make some valid points, I may have to try completely unplugging sometime in the near future.
Definitely agree with the "engage with your environment" point. Went running in the local woods early the other day, normally run with headphones listening to a podcast but forgot them.. the dawn chorus was awesome, the headphones are staying home from now on 🐦🐦🐦🏃🐦🐦🐦. Love the vids, keep up the good work buddy.
The timing is amusing, I actually chose to leave them behind today on my long Z2 run today. I think it's nice to mix it up. I wanna practice without mostly because it's not allowed during Ironman, so need to practice as per rules. I would say though, missing a run for lack of motivation is worse than brining your music along... don't miss a session forcing yourself to make it extra hard being consistent in training is already hard enough for most.
Hey Fergus , new to the channel and loving the content. Would be interested to see how you recover after a long run , protein shakes/any supplements? Also a full day/week of eating would be an interesting video , guess it depends massively on what you’re training that week
I've been running pretty much everyday since 2018 and I never wore headphones. I tried it once and I hated it (uncomfortable and felt strange). I feel calmer and more accomplished without them plus I can push myself harder.
I stopped using my headphones during all workouts (lifting, running, swimming) about 6 months ago when I heard Dr. Huberman (of the Huberman Lab Podcast) discussing the relationship between external stimulation and dopamine. Specifically, I remember him explaining that using music/podcasts/audiobooks/TH-cam videos to get through a workout will progressively make you more dependent on external stimuli to get through a workout, thus diminishing your ability to use your own discipline to complete workouts. I found this to be the case. The more I used external crutches to distract myself during workouts, the less I wanted to workout. By contrast, once I ditched the headphones and raw-dogged all of my workouts, I progressively grew more and more motivated to workout, and the workouts dragged on less and less. Thanks for all that you do, Fergus! You're the man!
I follow your point on being able to run without. But there are days - mostly with shitty weather conditions - where music lifts my motivation and pushes me to do more than minimum. Also there are plenty of playlists prepared with the correct BPM for keeping the perfect speed for the planned training. But: Only using Bone conduction - better hear when cars are approaching!
Watched the same Goggins video months ago and ditched the headphones after it! I do like using them during a midweek easy run for a distraction (podcast etc) but do enjoy the grin and bear it nature of intervals without them.
Music is food for the soul and has lifted me out of many dark places, whilst running and not running. Music can actually help to keep a certain pace ie classical music for slow long runs or increase the tempo for different sessions. The bottom line is, everyone is different, some people like to run with others and chat whilst running, others prefer to be alone with music....to claim that someone is "a fool" if they run "with headphones" ? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Done my first run today with no headphones after watching this last night, I was actually surprised I didn’t get bored or need extra motivation, I just focused on my breathing and it helped bring my heart rate down a few bpm when it went up. Just a question to anyone, for Zone 2 training does anyone avoid caffeine as it increases heart rate? I’m just curious if I should stop taking caffeine before zone 2 training to bring my heart rate down, not sure how much it actually affects my heart rate.
I agree, the real problem is to have the strength to do so tho. Especially in the early preparation phases where you still have to build up your normal aerobic capacity I find it pretty frustrating and not motivating as when I am advancing with the training But yeah generally it s a great reminder and tonight I ll definitely run without headphones. Thanks dude
I use one earpod for podcasts on my long runs but i am definitely going to try without now, i find myself drifting off into my own thoughts after about 4miles any way so i dont end up listening! Thanks for pushing me to make take the jump.
@@ferguscrawley95 So i ran without headphones this morning and ended up running 21 miles which is my longest run so far. I also PR'd my 30k, breaking the 3hour mark for the first time. Didn't miss them at all, actually gave me time to reflect on my goals for 2023. Thanks for the tip!
Nah bro 🤣. I hear you...... but ... nah. I am too weak. But might do a hybrid approach. Have my headphones and switch off music for periods of a run. I have aeropex headphones so I get to hear my surroundings too.
The music can be listened to at home, club, bus, train, or car. When running in nature, the only music to listen to is the music of nature, implicitly creating a connection with it. In this way, the common/sad/consuming thoughts that circulate through your mind like the cars in the roundabout are (more) reduced. What is "nature"? Well, remove your headphones and you'll hear the sound of the small river in the forrest, the breeze through the trees' branches and leaves, you'll better see the colors of autumn, the sound of running through the withered leaves on the road, the sounds of the snow under your steps, you'll better see in autumn the branches shaking and the leaves falling, or the snow falling, in winter. And another thing you'll hear if you remove your headphones, especially if you live in an area like I do, is the presence of the wild pigs and/or the bears. 🙂
yesterday I ran without a headphones for a first time in decade. not that I am a runner, last run was two months ago, I prefer hiking and mountain biking but still, gotta stay in shape any way I can. it was close to zero degrees Celsius, rainy. I thought will I be able to motivate myself to run any longer than 10 minutes without proper music. ended up running over 7km. and it was interesting. and I think in future I will leave my headphones at home. I never bring my phone with me when I go running, now I'll leave my headphones as well.
I used to run with headphones by myself until I joined a cross country team then I had people to talk to but whenever I did run with headphones I was usually by myself and it would always be folk music nice and easy stuff just to keep me occupied and I’d always usually only do it with one ear I see how running without and with music goes so it’s kind of tricky to pick one but as of right now still running without headphones
Never used the headphones before. Only listen to music when I'm working out indoors. Also, you forgot the most important reason: you don't get hit by a car, snatched by a rapist,... Be aware of your sorrundings, folks.
If there was no music to enjoy I wouldn't run at all because I generally hate it, so this advice wouldn't work for me, although even when lifting weights or cycling for 3-4 hours which I truly love the experience is greatly enhanced by listening to tunes. As a big fan of David Goggins it's one of the few things we disagree about along with the existence of god.
Nonsense. Depends what you are running for. Your intention and goals. I run mainly via watching my heart rate, after running for about 15 years tracking your heart rate is king. I do agree that certain music pumps you up but just have zone 2 playlist and a zone 4 playlist etc etc
For me personally, they have a time and a place if I am running somewhere new or just downright beautiful then I just enjoy the surrounding, however, if I am doing something I have done 100 times before as part of a training plan, then often the music breaks up the boredom
I love my zombies run app and listening to a story while running. Adhd isn't helping my ability to face my brain either 😅 But you have convinced me to ditch music in between the story clips which is a start, we'll see how it goes
Mate, I live in brazil, I wouldn't wear headphones even if I could, I would get robbed immediately! Never wore them, and I think its even kinda strange when people go past me wearing headphones.
I’ve recently started listening to podcasts and I’ve been enjoying my running way more … Even listening to the podcast I find myself talking to myself a lot more & clearing my head 😅
Nah, not convinced. For longer runs I don't mind going without sometimes but I'd much rather listen to a podcast or something. And leaving the 10% of extra performance in hard training that comes from having death metal blasting in my ears just seems silly
For me it is hard to match the music rhythm with the run and breathing. I am trying with them and without them. Cycling is much easier for music I enjoy. Of course open back and little volume so I can hear surrounding
i am from india bro your running place is very nice i would also like to run at such beautiful place one day And you're right about headphones how they disconnect us from our surroundings. good content
Headphones make me nauseous and get hot , I no you get warm quick running but I can’t get my breathing right with them on , on the down point is that I get bored and think negative without them 🤷🏽♂️
I ditched my music because it was way too much effort to make a running playlist 😂 I ended up playing the intro of voodoo child by jimmy hendricx over and over again
To be crystal clear: I don’t think anyone is a fool! Intended entirely as tongue and cheek to start a discussion (just in case British sarcasm is lost in translation to anyone) 🤙🏼
felt bad recently. left the house last night with no aim, ended up running 10 miles in the dark, stars out, very peacful and the pain i feel today gives me something to focus on
Sounds like some valuable reflection 🫡 hope all is well!
Past regrets have passed, use your present to prepare for your future...let the chips fall where they may
Dude 10 miles is crazy once I completed 11 miles I couldn't walk for 2 days
@@SurfyStories feels hard then you see the big boys doing 100 milers for fun, and then the inadequacy creeps in
@@Andy-ss8yg Don’t judge yourself by how far you can run compared to others. Only compare yourself to yourself. If you could run a mile yesterday and ten miles today that’s INSANE progress, you know? Plus, even short runs are healthy and good for reflection. Length is not the only marker of success. You can also ask yourself, was the run relaxing/fun/reflective/interesting/did you do the run at all? Just doing the run at all is a big deal! So many people don’t even begin the run… I’m amongst them as an aspiring runner. My personal goal is just to run… at all. I’m not going to compare myself to others, just to myself the day before. If I run 30 feet today, that’s a great improvement over yesterday, you know? I hope you are doing ok and can find peace and support in whatever you’re going through ❤
It's soon going to be a year since I made the decision to stop running without headphones. My life changed completely honestly... There is more freedom from being aware of the present moment during a run. The biggest thing it taught me however is how to fully face my problems as a teenager entering adulthood. During a 20+K trail run by yourself without anything but a backpack of water, I experienced a lot of moments of crisis and I never had my phone with me so the only way for me to get through was to start relying on myself to get me through the next mile. And boy, everytime I get through a critical moment during my run, there is just silence...and in todays world that is the biggest gift one could find🙏.
I took up running about 1 year ago and not once have I ran listening to music, podcasts, etc. When I started to run, I had the long term goal of running an ultra. From all the research I did on ultras, I knew it would be a mental battle more than physical one. So I decided to start mentally training as I started physically training. Just me and my thoughts for hours on end :)
I love the flow of this video, great editing and storytelling!I totally agree that runners need to learn to be independent from headphones and running without headphones also allows us to appreciate the reflective side of distance running. Having said that I also love to listen to long form podcasts or audiobooks on my long runs as it is one of the few moments I have to commit to longer recordings.
I think it is incredible that you can seriously having a conversation like you're running. AMAZING
Having my headphones to listen to stories is essential to me getting out for walks/runs. So im gonna keep using them.
I’ve done consistent 50 mile weeks for the last 4 months now and I’ve done 90% of them headphoned. This past two week I’ve done them all without headphones, has been such a game changer it’s changing my whole thought processes during running & I feel at one with myself, not using the headphones to escape the discomfort. Is mint
Couldn’t agree more. Like you said in a recent podcast, it opens up a certain level of reflection/rational thinking which sometimes you can’t quite unlock without that gentle stressor.
Exactly that!
Agree, haven’t been using headphones for a long time where I think it pays a big difference to not wear them is when running to a heart rate zone, miles easier to control your breath when you can hear yourself.
🤝
Thanks for making this video, perfect timing too! I appreciate the points you made, I’m going to start a light run today after not doing it for a long time and I’ve always included my earphone/ music. I’m going to not include them this time and focus on bettering myself and run and enjoying the natural surrounding. Thanks!
Awesome to hear! Best of luck 🤙🏼
Brilliant video - I’m my experience headphones have their place when you need them for “full send” from time to time as a bit of a mental boost. But especially for zone two work I find I can be “at peace” with myself without them and enjoy the long run experience. I find tempo runs are better without too so I can concentrate on my breathing especially when it starts to get tough
I got my meniscus torn last summer and now I'm getting back to walk. When I start to run again I might consider your advice! Super looking forward to running either with or without music :D
When Goggins says No, the only answer should be Roger that ;)
Well, my reasoning for not wearing headphones has always been safety issues. I mean I cannot feel safe wearing headphones even in my own room. Openbacks and only one ear for Tws, that's it.
Another reason was one I accidentally discovered some time back- I had barely slept 3 hours, it was cold af outside and my sickness that I've been pushing through for the runs whole week just got worse. Every excuse I could think of was right there telling me I can sleep in for today.
But right then, I saw my wireless buds lying there on the table and went "Today you can listen to your fav playlist the whole run, the whole freakin run. Deal?"
And immediately my mood just went through the roof! it was honestly among the easiest runs I had in a long while. I was actually blown away by my own mood shift lol.
So yeah, abstaining from it can be a real clutch in your worst days.
I gave up running with headphones 2 or 3 months back and I think you're right, I think it does build resilience. Like you, I enjoy the time to reflect, let my brain drift and generally spend time that way. I read something a few years back that said in the modern world our brains aren't getting the time they need to day dream and be aimless in the way they once did, so if that's true, I think that's a benefit of not wearing them, too. I went back to headphones briefly for a treadmill run recently when I needed the extra kick and distraction for a long indoor run, but generally speaking, I don't think I'll be going back to them. Even on a treadmill these days my running mind goes into a meditative state that works for me.
This motivated me to go back to running without headphones which is how I had begun running the very first time. Thanks Fergus!
What if i hate running because it's so boring and music/podcasts are the only thing that get me through it? Only do it to train for obstacle races
Saw this vid and figured I'd try it. Immediately better pacing. Training felt like I was fully present.
Music is just another external stimulus, don’t become dependent it to perform because you can’t use it in your races! Although I do think it’s fun to enjoy some music or a podcast during a run every now and then :)
Spot on!
Thank you man I needed this video
I run trails exclusively and I know I'm lucky to have woods and trails nearby. I love running without headphones and listening to the world around me and my body. My senses are always at their most heightened when I'm running. That said if I had to run roads I'd probably want headphones to drown out the awful car engine noise.
Great points! I always dreaded running without my headphones... Until I forgot them and it turns out running without them isn't that bad!
I stopped using them regularly for a while and I can now definitely see a noticeable boost in energy when I do use them so I 100% agree with the video.
Great to hear man! Thanks for watching 🤌🏼
I do both. Mostly ditch them when running with a group.
As a runner and cyclist the main issue I've had is people running out in front of me on road or cycle paths as they don't hear me, also you get some bell ends running and having a loud conference call on their earpods which everyone in the street is treated to. Don't be a bell end
Fergus, for me my cardio is my best time to listen to podcasts (including the Modern Mind 👍😎)
I went to the park and for some reason my music didn't work and it did make me want to not jog that day but I did it anyway and it was def harder to do but I pushed through it and it was awesome.
If I run in headphones I feel I have no contact or awareness of the world around me. On longer runs I prefer to enjoy the scenery, say hello to others out running or walking (especially if they are walking a dog and say hello to them too). I have a greater awareness of my breathing and ultimately like to use the flow of air through the body as a soundtrack to base my pacing against (and a Garmin helps too). Took me a while to transition away from headphones but part of my reason to run more is to get outside and enjoy the outside more, therefore, interact with it as much as I can.
I run with headphones but have considered to stop ever since I getting chased by a coyote without noticing...or the few times I almost got hit by a car. Better to be fully aware of your surroundings with all 5 senses.
I'd go crazy if I couldn't hear what goes on around me. I tried it once.
🤝🤝🤝
what would be wrong with headphones around your neck while still hearing your surroundings
I find it super hard to keep my cadence natural when I'm listening to music so I just leave the tunes out of it. I've been known to listen to podcasts on long runs alone in the city but sometimes that's just what I need. Wouldn't dream of it on the trail though
Mate - I thought running without headphones was bonkers. Music distracted from the pain of it all! But I gave it few goes after watching your video and it’s much easier to keep an eye on cadence and heart rate. I’m enjoying my runs more now. I blame you for that.
As an old guy, I spent decades without running without phone and earbuds. I like it, I can endure an hour or two without the phone, no problem
Very valuable indeed!
Yeah…nah! 😅
You’re missing out! 🤷♂️
Run an hour a day. Been doing for years. Only used headphones in the early years. Once you lose them you never look back. Carrying a water bottle and using headphone is the easiest way to spot a part timer. Also you can hear the white van that's going to kill you, before it does and maybe get in the hedge.
It’s weird for me. I run without headphones during group runs but I neeeeeed them on treadmills
Papa roach, Metallica… Beyoncé… 🤔 an insight into Fergus’s music playlists 😅
Tomorrow am’s 5 miles will give it a go!
Let us all know how you get on ✌🏼
I’m listening to this on headphones so take that.
I’ve started to run half a mile a day to get my self started on my own wintering journey thanks to you 💪🏻
Awesome to hear man well done!
@@ferguscrawley95 cheers, I’m going work on increasing the distance as much as I can. Without headphones of course 😅
Naah. I run in the city. Every day the same so no beauty and I just listen to podcasts so i dont go too fast
I never run with headphones and never will. I wanna hear traffic and birds.
"Appreciating surroundings like these"
*Plays hard rock*
I'm not sure if that was mossed, or the point was that the juxtaposition is jarring.
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These are fair reasons not to wear them but we are far from foolish for wearing them. For long runs I listen to long educational podcasts. Hard runs, I don't as I'm concentrating on working hard.
I disliked you the moment you called us fools
can't run without headphones, running is very boring ✋️😂
Lol. That's funny. I don't know any guys that run so I can't use Strada to compare or compete with them. They are all couch potatoes except one or two but they don't run either. Just weights
Went through a challenging period in my life and started running ,within 6 weeks I ditched the headphones and clarity of thought ,awareness of my surroundings and concentration on my form became so evident,that was 10yrs ago,keep up the inspirational work
I stopped running with headphones after one day I was running down this country road like I always did. All of a sudden this strong smell of flowers being carried by the breeze just hit me. I looked over and notice that everyday I ran by this beautiful field with flowers but never noticed it. I took out my headphones and began to really take in the beauty of my surroundings on this trail/ road.
I could NEVER run without music. Ever. I an a musician and love my music. I took a friend up on a challenge to run without headphones for just one mile of my runs. I would incrementally work up and add an additional mile I would run without headphones each week for every run, and I have gotten to the point where I never use headphones. I’m at the point now, where I almost don’t understand how people run WITH headphones! Even though I used to be that person… it’s made me less stressed, it’s given me time to ponder and reflect on life. I look forward to every run now, because I get the chance to work on being more present, and in the moment - during the runs, but in a more general sense as well! Unplugging from the noise has been one of the best decisions to ever make😁it gets easier, I promise! It might just become your new favorite way to run
For me, it depends on my mood. Most times I'm in the mood for Death Metal, sometimes hip hop, sometimes Afrobeats and every now and then, a little classical music. Sometimes I just want to hear the sound of nature.
My thoughts for what they're worth 😊
I listen to audio books on my zone two runs. Helps to develop my mental focus which is something I struggle with.
Agree with the beats making you go too fast, but for a shirt 5k or 10k spiky run or race that can be a good thing depends what you want from the session.
But yes getting reflective time is good too. Especially on a nice clear day in a country lane or trail.
Headphones I prefer if there's a lot of traffic noise as it just grates on me.
Thanks for sharing Thomas - some great points 🤙🏼
💯The time I started to run without headphones was the time I truly started to love running.
Awesome to hear man! Couldn’t agree more 🤘🏼
What made it better for you without headphones?
@@dsd6538 I feel like it is the only time of the day I am able to just process stuff. Working in front of a screen all day really makes me appreciate the time without any form of external stimulus. After some time it almost becomes transcendental (? if thats the right word 😅) to just hear my breathing and footsteps.
@@Julian-ut1in ok, never saw it like this. I will try this!
I've been running since I was 13 and since I was young and female when I started my mum made me promise not to listen to music, to keep safe in traffic + other attendant dangers. I haven't worn them since. I just don't feel the need to. I want to process my thoughts, not get run over, and I also know that I'd obsess over what to listen to too much to actually enjoy (or struggle through) my run.
1. I choose running songs based on consistent cadence based on the type of run I'm doing. 160-165 easy runs/170-175 tempo/180+track intervals. So, there's no way I inadvertently increase cadence or speed without wanting to. On the contrary I end up running too fast at times without any music whatsoever. Experienced it once when I forgot to charge my headphones.
2. I don't listen to music to escape my surroundings but enhance the entire experience. Like similar to how music can make or break a movie sort of thing. Running is like meditation to music for me while looking at everything. Basically, don't just pick your favorite songs. Pick songs based on the cadence first and foremost as the most important thing. I run to Eurobeat/Eurodance mixes and have a music sampling app that allows me to increase or decrease bpm (beat per minute similar to SPM step per minutes). I'm naturally hyperaware of my surrounding like everyone should be but you have people who I guess it's an issue even WITHOUT headphones as they'll bump into you walking towards you as if in their own little world. So, it's not the headphones but the individual wearing them.
3. The only time I can't reflect while running is when doing fast intervals on the track. Music in my ears never prevented me from thought. Just like watching this video with all the music and scenery and someone sharing their opinion allowing you to reflect. You can still reflect while he's talking, and you have all the scenery and music playing. I don't think music can distract me if I was depressed or wanting to tune a thought out. Pain/sudden accident I witness/stumbling upon a friend while out on a run/ect can tune me out of thoughts, but music no, it actually helps me focus on relaxing. Don't get me wrong thought I can't study with music at all lol.
I get extremely distracted if running without headphones. I can't even stay on one thought. I can't find my zone to just flow. I think everyone is different. Some people are extroverts and love the chaotic influences of the outside as they run. I draw state from within, so the earphones and music put me in a meditative state. I'm not unfocused at all. See everything around me. Always look both ways before crossing and am extremely aware of the surroundings especially because I know I have earphones on.
What app can you shift bpm on? Sounds cool
I'm also interested in the app. I also appreciate your music choices as a long time eurobeat/eurodance fan
This is exactly how I feel about running with music! It enhances it all for me too! I do run from time to time without headphones
Well said! I'm on the same page!
Ran my first 10k race this weekend and did the first 4 miles with no headphones to save it for when I really needed it. I'll definitely be doing it more in training!
Did a similar thing on my 10k
😂
What I love about running without headphones is u can leave the phone in the house and get an hour away from the phone lol . Nobody to txt or phone you or distract you .
This is a huge point, that I probably should have made in the video 😂 I’m just so used to running without my phone I forget people run with them 📱
I got hit by a car. Driver's fault but always had the thought in the back of my mind whether I would have avoided it but for having headphones in. Never used them since.
Thanks for watching everyone! Don’t forget to like the video 👍🏼 and comment down below with your thoughts ⬇️
Please let me know how you feel about the shorter format/more informative video style too - would be great to have your feedback!
STRAVA LINK: strava.app.link/ferguscrawleyYT
Personally think it's OK to listen to music for certain runs. Running is not like a set of squats, it ain't over in 90 seconds max. When time under tension is really not so great and you're dealing with an anaerobic activity then fine, blast the music and go all out. No runner who knows what they're doing will blast the first mile with the expectation of a 10K PR, it's an endurance sport. Personally I find listening to relaxing trance helps me run and doesn't make me do anything stupid, bursts of energy during long PR runs are terrible IMO. Once the HR goes too high can be a nightmare getting it to relax again into a nice tempo.
I find Tritonia or Nora En Pure is pretty good for strong performances. No song is going to make up for being out of shape in distance, for trail running trance gets me into the "smooth is fast," mindset. Negative splits are very common at the collegiate and Olympic level.
Just last week I listened to the wrong genre, was too aggressive and had the slowest final mile in months.
Enough about me, enjoy your run today :)
90% of the time I run without headphones, Love just hearing what's going on around me or even just listening to my own thoughts. I always Like to run in the dark with no head light (not a good idea) But it just help's me really get in tune with my run and it's something I love doing.
Great that you love it, that’s what matters most 🤘🏼
With this routine one day you're gonna scare the shit out of someone! XD
I use a bone conduction headphones now, helps me be aware of my surroundings 👍
I generally listen to a audiobook or podcast using only one earbud while running. I like the ability to learn while also getting exercise but you make some valid points, I may have to try completely unplugging sometime in the near future.
Definitely agree with the "engage with your environment" point. Went running in the local woods early the other day, normally run with headphones listening to a podcast but forgot them.. the dawn chorus was awesome, the headphones are staying home from now on 🐦🐦🐦🏃🐦🐦🐦. Love the vids, keep up the good work buddy.
The timing is amusing, I actually chose to leave them behind today on my long Z2 run today. I think it's nice to mix it up. I wanna practice without mostly because it's not allowed during Ironman, so need to practice as per rules.
I would say though, missing a run for lack of motivation is worse than brining your music along... don't miss a session forcing yourself to make it extra hard being consistent in training is already hard enough for most.
I love the idea will also implement it. But I also love being time efficient and learning from podcasts as I only listen to podcasts when I run.
Point number 2 is great if you don’t live in the Midwest lol
Hey Fergus , new to the channel and loving the content. Would be interested to see how you recover after a long run , protein shakes/any supplements? Also a full day/week of eating would be an interesting video , guess it depends massively on what you’re training that week
I've been running pretty much everyday since 2018 and I never wore headphones. I tried it once and I hated it (uncomfortable and felt strange). I feel calmer and more accomplished without them plus I can push myself harder.
I stopped using my headphones during all workouts (lifting, running, swimming) about 6 months ago when I heard Dr. Huberman (of the Huberman Lab Podcast) discussing the relationship between external stimulation and dopamine. Specifically, I remember him explaining that using music/podcasts/audiobooks/TH-cam videos to get through a workout will progressively make you more dependent on external stimuli to get through a workout, thus diminishing your ability to use your own discipline to complete workouts. I found this to be the case. The more I used external crutches to distract myself during workouts, the less I wanted to workout. By contrast, once I ditched the headphones and raw-dogged all of my workouts, I progressively grew more and more motivated to workout, and the workouts dragged on less and less.
Thanks for all that you do, Fergus! You're the man!
I follow your point on being able to run without.
But there are days - mostly with shitty weather conditions - where music lifts my motivation and pushes me to do more than minimum.
Also there are plenty of playlists prepared with the correct BPM for keeping the perfect speed for the planned training.
But: Only using Bone conduction - better hear when cars are approaching!
Watched the same Goggins video months ago and ditched the headphones after it! I do like using them during a midweek easy run for a distraction (podcast etc) but do enjoy the grin and bear it nature of intervals without them.
Music is food for the soul and has lifted me out of many dark places, whilst running and not running. Music can actually help to keep a certain pace ie classical music for slow long runs or increase the tempo for different sessions. The bottom line is, everyone is different, some people like to run with others and chat whilst running, others prefer to be alone with music....to claim that someone is "a fool" if they run "with headphones" ? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Done my first run today with no headphones after watching this last night, I was actually surprised I didn’t get bored or need extra motivation, I just focused on my breathing and it helped bring my heart rate down a few bpm when it went up.
Just a question to anyone, for Zone 2 training does anyone avoid caffeine as it increases heart rate? I’m just curious if I should stop taking caffeine before zone 2 training to bring my heart rate down, not sure how much it actually affects my heart rate.
I agree, the real problem is to have the strength to do so tho. Especially in the early preparation phases where you still have to build up your normal aerobic capacity I find it pretty frustrating and not motivating as when I am advancing with the training
But yeah generally it s a great reminder and tonight I ll definitely run without headphones. Thanks dude
Funny, I don’t use headphone for weight training, for similar reasons lol.
I said this on social media and was destroyed 🙀🙀🙀
Watching this while running damn
Personally do both but I find I ditch the headphones when out on the trails and in nature. No chavs or phone zombies to dodge!
What about running with a drone?
I use one earpod for podcasts on my long runs but i am definitely going to try without now, i find myself drifting off into my own thoughts after about 4miles any way so i dont end up listening! Thanks for pushing me to make take the jump.
Great to hear Ben, let us all know how you get on 🤝
@@ferguscrawley95 i feel like my 30k down the canal on tuesday is a better time than any to give it a shot 🤝
@@ferguscrawley95 So i ran without headphones this morning and ended up running 21 miles which is my longest run so far. I also PR'd my 30k, breaking the 3hour mark for the first time. Didn't miss them at all, actually gave me time to reflect on my goals for 2023. Thanks for the tip!
Nah bro 🤣. I hear you...... but ... nah. I am too weak. But might do a hybrid approach. Have my headphones and switch off music for periods of a run. I have aeropex headphones so I get to hear my surroundings too.
One step at a time my man!
@@ferguscrawley95 yes indeed. All the best.
I run with loop earplugs since there aren't any parks nearby and my route is on a busy road. Helps me focus a bit more on my breathing and heartbeat.
The music can be listened to at home, club, bus, train, or car. When running in nature, the only music to listen to is the music of nature, implicitly creating a connection with it. In this way, the common/sad/consuming thoughts that circulate through your mind like the cars in the roundabout are (more) reduced.
What is "nature"? Well, remove your headphones and you'll hear the sound of the small river in the forrest, the breeze through the trees' branches and leaves, you'll better see the colors of autumn, the sound of running through the withered leaves on the road, the sounds of the snow under your steps, you'll better see in autumn the branches shaking and the leaves falling, or the snow falling, in winter.
And another thing you'll hear if you remove your headphones, especially if you live in an area like I do, is the presence of the wild pigs and/or the bears. 🙂
yesterday I ran without a headphones for a first time in decade. not that I am a runner, last run was two months ago, I prefer hiking and mountain biking but still, gotta stay in shape any way I can. it was close to zero degrees Celsius, rainy. I thought will I be able to motivate myself to run any longer than 10 minutes without proper music. ended up running over 7km. and it was interesting. and I think in future I will leave my headphones at home. I never bring my phone with me when I go running, now I'll leave my headphones as well.
I used to run with headphones by myself until I joined a cross country team then I had people to talk to but whenever I did run with headphones I was usually by myself and it would always be folk music nice and easy stuff just to keep me occupied and I’d always usually only do it with one ear I see how running without and with music goes so it’s kind of tricky to pick one but as of right now still running without headphones
Never used the headphones before. Only listen to music when I'm working out indoors.
Also, you forgot the most important reason: you don't get hit by a car, snatched by a rapist,... Be aware of your sorrundings, folks.
If there was no music to enjoy I wouldn't run at all because I generally hate it, so this advice wouldn't work for me, although even when lifting weights or cycling for 3-4 hours which I truly love the experience is greatly enhanced by listening to tunes. As a big fan of David Goggins it's one of the few things we disagree about along with the existence of god.
Nonsense.
Depends what you are running for. Your intention and goals.
I run mainly via watching my heart rate, after running for about 15 years tracking your heart rate is king.
I do agree that certain music pumps you up but just have zone 2 playlist and a zone 4 playlist etc etc
For me personally, they have a time and a place if I am running somewhere new or just downright beautiful then I just enjoy the surrounding, however, if I am doing something I have done 100 times before as part of a training plan, then often the music breaks up the boredom
I love my zombies run app and listening to a story while running. Adhd isn't helping my ability to face my brain either 😅 But you have convinced me to ditch music in between the story clips which is a start, we'll see how it goes
Mate, I live in brazil, I wouldn't wear headphones even if I could, I would get robbed immediately! Never wore them, and I think its even kinda strange when people go past me wearing headphones.
I’ve recently started listening to podcasts and I’ve been enjoying my running way more …
Even listening to the podcast I find myself talking to myself a lot more & clearing my head 😅
Nah, not convinced. For longer runs I don't mind going without sometimes but I'd much rather listen to a podcast or something. And leaving the 10% of extra performance in hard training that comes from having death metal blasting in my ears just seems silly
Running with headphones is bad enough...but cycling with headphones is plain nuts. How much distraction do people need?
I like listening to relaxing ambient music radio when running..radiospinner lounge ..no djs..
For me it is hard to match the music rhythm with the run and breathing. I am trying with them and without them. Cycling is much easier for music I enjoy. Of course open back and little volume so I can hear surrounding
i am from india bro your running place is very nice i would also like to run at such beautiful place one day
And you're right about headphones how they disconnect us from our surroundings.
good content
Headphones make me nauseous and get hot , I no you get warm quick running but I can’t get my breathing right with them on , on the down point is that I get bored and think negative without them 🤷🏽♂️
Point number 2 whilst suggesting running without music....proceeds to play an absolute banger 😂
I ditched my music because it was way too much effort to make a running playlist 😂 I ended up playing the intro of voodoo child by jimmy hendricx over and over again