It used to be that I ran with headphones on every single run.
Lately, I’ve ditched them, opting instead for silence.
Surprisingly, there have been some real benefits. Running without music gives my mind space to wander and provides a welcome break from the constant stimulation of modern life. I’ve also become more in tune with my surroundings—especially the approach of traffic, which is a nice safety bonus. And during both easy and hard runs, I can focus more on my form and pacing without the distraction.
The only time I still pull out the headphones is for the occasional weekend long run. In those moments, the novelty of music or a podcast makes the run feel a little more fun.
Will this no-headphones streak last? Probably not forever. Winter is coming, and I can’t imagine grinding through treadmill miles without some form of entertainment. But for now, I’m enjoying the silence.
Today’s run: 5.08 miles in 43 minutes. My latest fitness “superpower”? Tackling steep hills without feeling wiped out afterward.
