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terrain March/April 2020
LISTEN UP
The pros, cons, and considerations of running with music.
By Kathleen Nelson
W
hether dashing down the track, hitting the trail, or going the distance at a marathon, runners have used music to inspire, to pace - even to distract. From state champs and record holders to Olympians, some of the area's elite runners sound off on what works, when it works, and what to avoid.
Jonathon Coffman
Herculaneum High, class of 2020; four-time all-state cross country finisher Music on: When I run by myself. Music off: When I run with my team or I have to do repeats. Faves: I have a couple of go- to songs: Red Lights by Tisto and Poker Face by Lady Gaga. If I hear something I like, I add it to my playlist and take something else off. Safety tip: Even with one ear out, I've caught myself not hearing cars and getting surprised. That's a red flag to turn down the music. One last chorus: I've used Aftershokz on long runs. They go behind your ears, so you can stay aware of what's going on around you.
Rik Denicke
Ultrarunner, registered the Fastest Known Time on the 230.8-mile Ozark Trail: four days, 11 hours, 8 minutes Music on: Driving to the trail, some song will get stuck in my brain because it has a good cadence for the terrain. Music off: Other than what's stuck in my brain, I don't bring music. I like the connection with nature - hearing footsteps and knowing whether it's a raccoon or a deer. Faves: Lately, it's been Tycho. Some of the music is ethereal, some has a more driving beat. Safety tip: Some ultrarunners use headphones. If they're not aware of me, I yell. Respectfully. They slow me down for a minute or so, but they always move out of the way. One last chorus: On a sunny day, I can pull reggae or the Grateful Dead from my brain. If it's raining and dark, maybe some '90s grunge.
Carmelita "The Jet" Jeter
Three-time Olympic medalist, three-time world champion, 100-meter specialist; associate head track coach, Missouri State University Music on: The only time I could use music was on the bus before a meet or on a longer weekend run, which really was just a 20-minute jog. For my runners, it's the same: I want them to use music to get into a zone. Music off: For all workouts
running
Rik Denicke Jonathon Coffman Carmelita Jeter
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