This story has been archived from the Sunday, August 14, 2005

Sound decisions

By DAVID RAMSEY
THE GAZETTE

For some, listening to music while running is a great boost. For others, it’s an unthinkable intrusion into the enjoyment of a pure communion with nature. Several area runners commented on the choices they make when it comes to listening to music during training:

Matt Carpenter, multiple winner of the Pikes Peak Ascent and Pikes Peak Marathon
“I usually don’t listen. In general, the real difference between the front of the pack and the middle of the pack is when it starts to hurt. The runners in the middle of the pack, they externalize. They think about the trip to Hawaii or their music. “The faster runner tends to focus inside and say, ‘OK, I’m starting to feel a little cramp. What do I need to do about it?’ “I take music for some training runs, but it’s more fun for getting psyched up before a run. I actually like some of that meaner rap stuff. I listen to Eminem’s ‘Soldier.’ “It helps me because sometimes in races, you have to be a little bit angry. You can’t be too pacifist. You’re running to bust somebody’s lungs. That’s what I love about running — it’s you and another guy trying to bust out the other’s lungs.”

Lisa Rainsberger, winner of the 1985 Boston Marathon
“I do not listen when I’m running outside. I just like the total peace and quiet of running. There’s always chatter going on in my life, and I love the peacefulness of being able to go out the door and run without any noise, except the pure form of nature. That’s what makes me happy.
“At home, when I’m running, I sometimes listen to Neil Young or old Fleetwood Mac.”

Jeff Kunkle, three-time competitor in both the Pikes Peak Ascent and Pikes Peak Marathon
“I like to listen. It just keeps your head on straight and helps you daydream and stuff. I like listening to Grateful Dead and Phish. I like the most upbeat songs that really get your feet moving.”

Terry Buterbaugh, who ran in last year’s Pikes Peak Marathon
“Sometimes, I like to listen, usually to rock. I think music can take your mind off of your pain, if you start feeling your legs and stuff.”

Scott Elliott, won 2004 Pikes Peak Ascent
“Absolutely no. Running for me is a very sensual activity and the last thing I want to do is block off one of my primary senses. I want to see it and hear and smell it and breathe it.”

CONTACT THE WRITER: 636-0259 or dramsey@gazette.com

Copyright 2005, The Gazette, a division of Freedom Colorado Information. All rights reserved. Used with permission.