First up — music. You’ve probably heard purists say: “If you need music, you’re not mentally tough enough.”

But here’s the thing — running is a mental game, and for some runners, music helps them get into a flow state.

Pros of running with music: ✅ Can boost motivation on solo runs ✅ Helps maintain cadence ✅ Distracts from discomfort during long efforts

Cons: 🚫 Can make it harder to tune into your body’s signals 🚫 In races, you might miss course cues or crowd energy 🚫 Safety concerns on open roads