Hearing screening at Bellin Run Expo will encourage runners to turn down their iPods and MP3s
GREEN BAY — Motivational music from iPods, MP3s and other portable music devices can contribute to a great run, but Bellin Run race officials are reminding runners and walkers to keep it at a reasonable level, not just at the event, but at all times.
“Loud music that is transmitted to you directly through headphones and ear buds can damage your hearing, and also can be a safety concern as vehicle noise and warnings from others are muffled,” said Randy Van Straten, Bellin Run race director. “We want everyone to be safe at this year’s Bellin Run. Part of that is making sure that everyone is able to hear what is happening around them.”
To assist runners in choosing a proper level for running, NEW ENT will be sponsoring a hearing screening from 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 13, at the Bellin Run Health Expo in the 725 Webster Avenue Medical Building parking lot. Participants will receive a test from audiologists to screen for hearing damage, learn about safe listening levels and will be advised on what precautions to take at this year’s Bellin Run and on future runs.
Visitors can also register to win an iPod Shuffle with customized, fitted ear buds from
NEW ENT.
“You are doing so many good things for your body when you run or walk, but if you're listening to a portable music device at an inappropriate level, you could be damaging your hearing,” said Lorie Dorn, a clinical audiologist with NEW ENT. “Many factors like the length of listening time and type of listening environment can play a role in creating permanent hearing loss. By changing your habits, you could stop or prevent noise induced hearing loss.”
Officials note portable music devices can be useful training tools for a 10K run. As the popularity of such devices has grown, so has their use during the Bellin Run.
“We want you to enjoy yourself with your choice of music at this year’s Bellin Run if you choose to do so,” said Van Straten. “We just want people to know how important it is to keep it at the proper volume – for your sake and for the safety of those around you.”
The Bellin Run, a 10K (6.2 mile) run/walk in Green Bay, Wis., is the fourth-largest timed 10K race in the nation with 12,908 participants. Established in 1977, the Bellin Run features elite runners, a children’s run, corporate challenge, running expo, all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner and a number of other events and activities for runners and their families.
This year’s 32nd annual Bellin Run is June 14, 2008. For more information, or to register, go to: www.bellinrun.com.
