The power of music: how high-energy music can make your workout more effective

October 19, 2022

You've probably noticed that when you're working out, your choice of music can make a big difference in how effective your workout is. For instance, if you're feeling sluggish, a fast-paced song can give you the boost you need to pick up the pace. On the other hand, if you're feeling pumped up and ready to go, a slower song can help you keep from overdoing it and help you maintain a sustainable pace.

But why is this? What is it about music that can have such a profound effect on our workouts? Let's take a look at the science behind the power of music and how it can help you make your workout more effective.


How Music Affects Your Workout


There are a few different ways that music can affect your workout. First of all, music can provide a distraction from fatigue. When you're working out, your body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones are part of the "fight or flight" response, and they cause physical reactions like increased heart rate and respiration.

Over time, these reactions can lead to feelings of fatigue. But when you're listening to music, you're distracted from these feelings, and you can work out for more extended periods. In fact, one study found that listening to your favorite music can increase your endurance by up to 15 per cent while lowering your perception of effort.

Music can also help you regulate your intensity levels. When trying to lose weight or improve your fitness level, it's essential to find a balance between working hard enough to see results but not so hard that you injure yourself or burn out quickly.

Listening to music can help you strike this balance by giving you an external cue to go faster or slow down. For example, if you're running on a treadmill and you start to feel like you're going too fast, you can simply slow down the tempo of your music to match your desired pace. Similarly, if you start to feel like you're slacking off, you can pick up the tempo to give yourself a little push. Of course, in addition to some epic tunes, staying hydrated is also key for working out. That's why you should always keep a smart water bottle within reach, so you never have to stop your workout for lack of hydration.

Here are some tracks to add to your playlist!

"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor

This song is an iconic pump-up anthem that has been motivating athletes and everyday people alike for decades. So if you need a little extra motivation to get through your workout, this is the song for you.

"Lose Yourself" by Eminem

This song is perfect for when you're feeling like you can't go on any longer. It's about pushing through despite the odds, and that's exactly what you'll be doing when you listen to it during your workout. Trust us, if Eminem can do it, so can you.

"Stronger" by Kanye West

This one is perfect for when you need a reminder that you're strong enough to get through anything. No matter how tough your workout is, this song will help you remember that you're stronger than you think.

"Circles" by Post Malone

Post Malone always knows how to make a catchy tune, and "Circles" is no exception. This song will definitely put some pep in your step.

"Good as Hell" by Lizzo

This song is all about body positivity and self-love, which is something we could all use a little more of. And who doesn't love Lizzo? She's basically the queen of confidence.

"Runnin' (Lose It All)" - Naughty Boy ft. Beyoncé, Arrow Benjamin

This song is perfect for when you're looking to pick up the pace. It's high-energy and will leave you feeling invigorated after your workout.

"Pump it Up" by the Black Eyed Peas

Another great workout song with its catchy rhymes and infectious beat. Actually many of the Black Eyes Peas song make the cut: I Gotta Feeling, Boom Boom Pow...

"Thunderstruck" by AC/DC

Ready to take it up a notch? You're thunder...struck! This is a great track for when you want to increase the intensity of your run on the treadmill or outdoors... think of it as your winner round track!

"Don't stop me now" by Queen

Why stop now that you are so pumped up and working out... you can do it! 

"I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor

This classic disco tune is the perfect pick-me-up when you're feeling tired and worn out. It'll give you the energy you need to keep going and finish strong.

If you're looking for an edge in your workout, there's no need to look any further than your own playlist. By carefully selecting high-energy songs that match the tempo of your exercise, you can increase your endurance, distract yourself from fatigue, and better regulate your intensity levels—all of which will lead to more effective workouts and better results. So next time you hit the gym or go for a run, make sure to bring along some tunes!

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