Pros and Cons of Running NAKED

Now that I have your attention…

This is not about running without clothes!

We’re talking about going out for your run without ANY technology with you: No GPS, No Music, No HR Monitor, NOTHING. What are the advantages and disadvantages of doing something like this?

I’ve run about a dozen marathons and my second fasted was the one I ran without a watch! I just ran by feel. I knew I wanted to run slow in the first half, pick up the pace a little bit after the half way point and start to RACE after mile 20, but that’s it. That was my only strategy, and it worked well for me.

Running is a great way to get exercise, relieve stress, and improve your overall health. But for many runners, technology has become an integral part of their running experience. GPS watches, heart rate monitors, and music players can all be helpful tools for runners, but they can also be a distraction.

So, what are the pros and cons of running without technology? Here’s a closer look:

• Mindfulness: When you run without technology, you’re forced to focus on your surroundings and your breathing. This can help you to be more mindful and present in the moment. Mindfulness has been shown to have a number of benefits, including reducing stress, improving focus, and boosting mood.

• Connection to nature: When you run without technology, you’re more likely to be aware of your surroundings and connect with nature. This can be a very grounding and rewarding experience. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve mental health and well-being.

• Improved performance: Some runners find that they perform better when they run without technology. This is because they’re not distracted by the numbers on their watch or the music in their ears. They’re able to run more intuitively and listen to their bodies.

• Sense of adventure: Running without technology can add an element of adventure to your runs. You won’t know how far you’ve run or how fast you’re going, which can make it more challenging and exciting.

Cons of Running Without Technology:

• Safety: Running without technology can be a safety risk. If you get lost or injured, you won’t have a way to call for help. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and run in safe areas when you’re not wearing technology.

• Lack of data: If you’re tracking your progress, you won’t be able to do so without technology. This can be frustrating for some runners who like to see their data and track their progress over time. However, there are other ways to track your progress, such as keeping a running journal or using a manual stopwatch.

• Distractions: Running without technology can make it more difficult to stay motivated. If you’re used to listening to music or podcasts while you run, you may find it harder to stay focused without them. You can try listening to the sounds of nature or your own breathing to stay motivated.

Conclusion:

The decision of whether or not to go for a run without technology is a personal one. There are both pros and cons to consider, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs. If you’re thinking about trying running without technology, I recommend starting slowly and gradually increasing the amount of time you spend running without it. This will give you a chance to get used to it and see how you feel. And if you find that you don’t enjoy it or that it’s not safe for you, you can always go back to using technology.

Here are some additional tips for running without technology:

• Choose a safe route: Run in a familiar area or with a friend.

• Tell someone where you’re going: Let someone know your route and when you expect to be back.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to where you’re going and be aware of potential hazards.

• Listen to your body: If you’re feeling tired or sore, take a break.

Running without technology can be a great way to get a more mindful and enjoyable workout. If you’re willing to give it a try, you may be surprised at how much you enjoy it.