Calendar | Results | Fastest In Metroplex | Texas Marathons | Side Trips| Where To Run | Neighbors | 2007 Archives | Amazon Store | Home

USATF Out of Tune With Rule
Banning Audio Devices

The USTAF has required this year (see story on Side Trips) that sanctioned road races must prohibit the use of audio

devices during events. Many events, even though not USATF sanctioned, follow this rule. However, at least one D-FW runner believes this rule is out of tune with reality. Jim Robertson says the rule just doesn't make sense to him, and he lists several reasons why he believes the rule is wrong.

Here are Jim's reasons why he believes audio devices aren't unsafe while running in a road-race event:

1, There are no safety issues with headphones while running a race. Traffic is blocked off and police are on the intersections. There are no cars among or near the runners. The only exception may be on a race with loops, where a golf cart may precede the front runner and announce the coming front runner to runners ahead (how safe it that?). I'm confident that any emergency vehicle will be seen, and certainly can be heard with their loud horns. Even then, the runner is not alone; at a minimum the runner will notice the reactions of the surrounding runners.

2. Name one incident where a runner in a race was injured or caused injury because of headphones.

3. Studies show that music improves performance. For example, it regulates fatigue and raises energy (Athletic Insight 2001 Vol31ss/MoodRegulation.htm) and it enhances mood states, with listeners perceiving exercise to be less exhaustive (Journal of Sport Behavior 1997; 20:54-68).

4. Running organizations strive to include as many people as possible (hence 6-hour marathon clocks). Why diminish the enjoyment of the runners?

5. There is more danger of slipping on spilled (energy drinks) at water stations than any perceived injury due to headphones. Should we outlaw hydration? What about banana peels left on the road?

6. People stumble and fall on the reflectors in the middle of the road. Should these be removed for the race?

Maybe you agree or don't with Jim. If you'd like to share your thoughts, please e-mail this website at admin@clinesrunningcorner.com.