Goodbye Headphones: Hello Speakers

Almost everyone I know (myself included) wears an I-pod with headphones while they workout. To me, it's a relaxing way to workout and it lets me take my mind off the exercise itself.

But, like all things good, listening to music while exercising outside, is not without its pitfalls. If the music is loud enough to block out interim noise like traffic and car-horns (and lets face it, if it's not, then you probably can't hear the music properly), then it can make us less aware of what's going on around us, and thus make us more prone to being hit by a car, or overcome by a crazy stalker.

It was for these reasons that "Safe Sound Sports Speakers" were developed. The little speakers attach to your running shirt, or hang loosely like a neck bandana. They're waterproof and cost just $19.99.

The product information also goes on to say that these speakers offer great sound quality. But I have to be skeptical of that, because even when I have earphones in my ears, if a loud truck or something drives past, I can't hear my music.

Still, the speakers seem like a good idea, particularly if you run alone. Runners World offers other tips to improve running safety, such as running with a dog, and running in safe, well-lit, public places with minimal danger. Here's a complete list of safety tips.

My other concern with these speakers is that other people can hear your music. So, if you were to workout in a small area like a track, then you could potentially annoy a lot of people.

The other day, I was on a small plane from Atlanta to Alexandria, LA., and there was this old guy playing a computer game on his laptop with the sound levels right up- and no headphones. It was very irritating.

However, if safety is something you're concerned about, then maybe these speakers are something you could try. They come with a one-year warranty, so if you don't like them, just send them back!