Is it REALLY a no-no?

I use my ipod for any running race. From 5k to 13.1, (and soon to be 26.2)

I always wear an ipod during running only races. You will see thousands with them most likely. Take it and use it.

steveseer - 2009-07-31 12:18 PM I don't really think its frowned upon, especially in running races.  Its just that in many cases, headphones are illegal and result in DQ or penalty.  So long as it abides by all the rules, go for it.

Although I do think it seems odd to do during this half mary.

I know, but all the bands are no name bands, and I like my own music, you know?

The reason why I thought it was frowned upon was because my sister has drilled that into my head about ANY race...

I may not have written that correctly, but I've had it drilled into my head by my sister that wearing music in a race is frowned upon...or at least, that's what her and her racing buddies think, but whatever, I am going to wear it.

Check the rules - it's usually banned at a USATF race.  I imagine that a big race like that is USATF.  At Grandma's they were confiscating them.  It wasn't clear to me if they would put your name on it, so you could pick it up later, or what the deal was.  Not a risk I'm willing to take!

If it's not banned, do what you want.

I just checked the web site and they don't say anything about it, so go for it.

However, please be aware of other runners when crossing the street, cornering, etc.  The only people I have ever been tripped by in big races are those wearing headphones.  Seriously - it's annoying.

THANKS EVERYONE!!!

SORRY  I forgot the rule changed at the end of last year.

I always run with an iPod but never race with one and never miss it on race day.  There is usually so much going on that I want to hear....spectators comments, other runner's comments, bands along the course etc. 

I ran the Country Music Marathon and they had bands every mile.  You could hear them long befor you got to them and long after you passed them.  It was really fun running from band to band.  There was one band that cracked me up.  As I was passing them they were singing the song, "...you're no good, you're no good, you're no good, baby you're no good!"  I thought, good Lord, they must of timed that just for me!!

~Mike