Headphones
From WikiRun
Headphones are a pair of small loudspeakers, or less commonly a single speaker, with a way of holding them close to a user's ears and a means of connecting them to a signal source such as an audio amplifier, radio or CD player. They are also known as earphones, earbuds, stereophones, headsets or, informally cans. In the context of telecommunication, the term headset is used to describe a combination of headphone and microphone used for two-way communication, for example with a telephone.
Running with headphones poses a safely hazard because the person wearing the headphones may not hear other runners, automobiles, or verbal warnings or instructions. In highly competitive events, there is also a concern that the runner would receive unfair assistance, information or advice through radio communications from a coach or spotters on the course. However, many people both train and race with headphones to distract the runner from the toil of a long run or to provide a rythem to maintain running form.
| As a result, considerable controversy surrounds whether runners may wear headphones during races. In October 2007, the Montgomery County Road Runners Club lauched its Run Aware program to discourage the use of headphones and to promote a "no headphones" logo for race publications.[1]
The USATF Rules of Competition prohibited "The visible possession or use by athletes of video or audio cassette recorders or players, TV's, CD or DVD players, radio transmitters or receivers, mobile phones, or any simiiar device in the competition area."[2] However, at its 2008 Annual Meeting, USATF approved an amendment to the rule to give race directors discretion on the question of allowing headphones. The rule now states, "The Games Committee for an LDR event may allow the use of portable listening devices not capable of receiving communication; however, those competing in Championships for awards, medals, or prize money may not use such devices."[3] |
 Universal No Headphones Icon |
The Road Runners Club of America does not have firm rules on the question, but does have a guideline that dates back to the mid-1980's recommending that race directors not allow headphones due to safety concerns.[4]
References
- ↑ http://www.mcrrc.org/health/runaware.php Retrieved 2009-01-02.
- ↑ Rule 144.3(f) prior to 2009.
- ↑ http://www.usatf.org/news/view.aspx?DUID=USATF_2008_12_22_10_22_16 Retrieved 2009-01-02.
- ↑ http://www.rrca.org/news/index.php?article=2265 Retrieved 2009-01-02.