Should you wear headphones while doing outdoor cardio?

Listening to music or a podcast while you do your cardio sessions can be beneficial for keeping your mind off what you're doing or staying consistent with a specific pace or cadence. If you tend to fall into either one of those categories and are working out at home or at a gym, headphones are likely a good idea. On the other hand, if you're doing your cardio in the neighborhood, on a nearby trail, or up in the mountains, I would not recommend using headphones. Yes, you likely see people doing it when you're out and about (but that doesn't mean it's a good idea!). Heck, even I used to always run on paved trails with headphones in until I recognized it's likely safer for me to do without. I recommend doing without the headphones so you can: - Be aware if a bike or runner wants to pass - Listen to your breathing to help find a rhythm - Listen to your foot steps for insight to your stride and form - Be aware of wildlife - Be aware of cars, ATVs, or e-bikes Ultimately, outdoor cardio is safer to complete without headphones in. You'll see some people keep one headphone in, one headphone out. I don't think I could be trusted to not lose the other headphone, if I'm being honest haha. But if you do choose to go this route, I still recommend keeping the volume low on the single headphone just in case. Whichever method you choose, be safe and have fun!