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Journalism of Courage
Running is one of the most accessible and effective forms of exercise, but only when done with safety in mind.
A recent viral video featuring comedian Kapil Sharma has sparked concern over a common but potentially life-threatening mistake many runners make. In the clip, Sharma is seen jogging on a hilly road while wearing headphones, an act that drew the attention of tech guru Rajiv Makhni, who issued a public warning about the dangers involved.
Sharing the clip on Instagram, Makhni wrote: “Kapil Sharma makes a big mistake! ANC Headphones can cause serious accidents! Share this with that friend who loves to go running with headphones on! @kapilsharma is one of India’s funniest comedians and lately he’s done a great job with his health and fitness too… In a new viral video, he’s seen running on a hilly road with headphones. While that may be great for his health, there’s a huge mistake he’s making that he shouldn’t ever do…and neither should you! (sic)”
Many fitness enthusiasts rely on music or podcasts to keep them going, but could noise-cancelling headphones while running outdoors actually put your safety at risk?
Sadhna Singh, senior fitness and lifestyle consultant at HereNow Official, tells indianexpress.com, “Wearing active noise-cancelling headphones while running outdoors can pose serious safety concerns, particularly in environments where situational awareness is key. ANC technology is designed to block out external sounds, which might be beneficial in a gym but can be risky when navigating roads, footpaths, or trails.”
When a runner is unable to hear ambient cues like approaching vehicles, cyclists, barking dogs, or even verbal warnings from other pedestrians, it limits their ability to react quickly. Singh states, “On uneven terrain, the distraction caused by immersive audio can also reduce focus on foot placement, increasing the risk of trips or falls. In high-traffic areas, this lack of awareness can have life-threatening consequences.”
Reduced environmental awareness means a runner may miss early cues of potential hazards. “For instance, a car approaching from behind or a cyclist ringing their bell often prompts runners to shift or slow down. Without that input, reactions are delayed or completely absent,” notes the expert.
In natural environments or uneven surfaces, Singh adds, runners depend not just on vision but also on hearing to anticipate changes — whether it is a snapping twig suggesting movement nearby or loose gravel underfoot. “With ANC headphones masking those sounds, a runner becomes more vulnerable to injury or collision simply because they are cut off from the feedback their body normally relies on during motion.”
“For those who like running with music or podcasts, there are safer alternatives that maintain a level of environmental awareness. Bone conduction headphones are popular, as they transmit sound through the cheekbones while leaving the ears open to surrounding noise. Another option is using only one earbud, especially in the ear opposite to the road or pathway, allowing the other ear to stay alert,” suggests Singh.
She adds that many audio devices today also offer an ambient or transparency mode, which allows external sounds to pass through while still playing music. This can be a helpful compromise for runners in moderately safe areas like parks or quieter neighborhoods. “Ultimately, the key is finding a balance between enjoyment and alertness to ensure safety while running,” concludes Singh.
