iPods/MP3 Players Plugged-in

A word of advice from a retired law enforcement officer. I see people (especially women) jogging, walking & biking all the time with their iPods/Mp3 players plugged into both ears making them oblivious to the world around them. Can't hear a car's horn or worst yet, someone running up behind them.

Stalkers, muggers, rapists are on the look out all the time for 'innocent' (unaware) victims. They size-up their quarry and if you're not paying attention, you appear as a target to them. There's a good & bad time to be "plugged-in" and while out exercising alone is not one of them.

If you must listen to your music or perhaps an audible book, use just one ear, not both. When people are listening to their portable devices they become detached from the world. Just what the 'bad guys' are watching for, let alone animals. Oh, I guess they're the same.

When you're home &/or in safe company, then feel free to plug in both earplugs so you have your stereo sound. Any other time (when you're alone), stay tuned into the outside world.

God bless & stay safe. 

 This is great advice!  Not only will you hear people approaching, but you cna also enjoy the sounds of nature if you are in a rural area.  

I also find running unplugged makes me a lot more aware of what my body is doing and I can improve my form.

I try to tell other women this all the time, but all I ever hear is the excuse of "I can't do it without music"

Great advice for everyone!