In my years of being a runner, there are many thing that I have discovered that have helped me. There are the athletic things like training, proper gear, and drinking lots of water. And, there are little hacks that have made a big difference, too. Today, I’d like to introduce you to my favorite hack!
I love having music while I run. It is a great way to take my mind off of the monotony of the mileage. For as far back as I can remember, I ran with earbuds. But that has changed, thanks to a suggestion from my wife.
Several years ago, my wife introduced me to Shokz. If you’re not familiar, Shokz are “Bone Conduction Sport Headphones”. These headphones sit on the outside of your ear, not inside like an earbud. They use vibrations to transmit sound to your inner ear through the bones in your upper cheek and jaw. Crazy, huh? According to the Shokz website,
Bone conduction headphones work by transmitting sound vibrations along your cheekbones instead of through the air. It’s the same technique that sea mammals use underwater and composer Beethoven used to make music when he lost his hearing. It all comes down to sound vibrations.
I find myself wearing them all day. In fact, I barely even notice that I have them on. I also can be completely hands free with wonderful sound quality for phone calls and safe driving.
Every time I see someone running with actual earbuds, I feel sorry for them. I once saw a runner struggling with their earbud cords. They were trying not to get their arms tangled up on a windy day.
I also feel safer running in Shokz. I can hear everything happening around me. From police sirens and animals, to bicycle bells and even other runners.
Every month, I am asked about my Shokz. Anytime I give them to someone to try-on, they always have the same reaction, “How much were they?” My pair was only $130. And, did I mention that I wear them all day? And yeah, the battery holds its charge for days!
Whether you’re a beginner, or an experienced runner, your local running store usually has them at the counter to demo. I highly recommend them! (I got mine at Striders in Jenison)
Spend the $130. Go make a difference. Always run by faith!
I am not being paid to write this. However, if the Shokz marketing team happens to see this, my wife and I are available as Ambassadors)
I’d love for you to drop a comment and share your experiences with running gear or music while jogging.