Top songs for the perfect workout
Sometimes it is difficult to find the motivation to go to the gym – but the right music can be the key to having a great workout.
“It always helps to have something high paced,” Meredith Cross, 22, a senior speech, language, and hearing sciences major, said.
With music players like iPods and Zunes it is becoming increasingly easy to bring along the right music to help spice up a workout.
According to a study by Sport and Exercise Psychologist Dr. C. I. Karageorghis, music is beneficial during exercise. It helps narrow focus, which keeps attention off fatigue and it works as a stimulator.
Dr. Karageorghis’ study also revealed that music is beneficial as a result of the commonalities between rhythm and human movement, meaning the synchronization of music with exercise improves the rhythm and quality of exercise, which can enhance motor skills.
Most CU students agree that high paced music is best for working out even though students have varying opinions on which genre of music offers the best upbeat songs.
“I like Daft Punk because it is high tempo,” Brad Higginbotham, 20, a sophomore business major said.
While some students turn to techno bands like Daft Punk, others find inspiration elsewhere.
“I like rock and Rage Against the Machine. Sometimes it is even good to have a singer yelling at you,” John Marriner, 21, a senior psychology major said.
There are plenty of great workout songs that are positive and great to get the blood pumping. Here is a compilation list of some highly recommended workout songs from the iTunes Store, Fitness Magazine, and student opinions:
“Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” by Daft Punk- A popular techno song that is upbeat and filled with lyrics that can boost any exercise. For hip hop fans, “Stronger” by Kanye West samples the tune and matches it with West’s rhymes.
“The Rockafeller Skank” by Fatboy Slim – Another great techno song.
“Numb/Encore” by Jay-Z and Linkin Park – Two popular music creators came together to create this intense mix a few years ago. The song has an angry undertone that can help add to a strong workout.
“Ready, Steady, Go” by Paul Oakenfold – A classic techno song that is all about going strong. The song is also fairly long and can help any listener keep up the pace.
“Don’t Cha” by The Pussycat Dolls – Great for both girls and guys, the song motivates listeners by reminding them why they are at the gym. to be hotter.
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor – It’s the classic theme from the film “Rocky.” What else needs to be said?
“SexyBack” by Justin Timberlake – While it was an ongoing joke for about a year, this song is fast paced with plenty of rhythm that also helps remind exercisers that working out will help lead to a sexier look.
“I Ran” by Flock of Seagulls – This song from the 1980s has a constant rhythm that is great for exercises like biking and track.
“Holding Out for a Hero” by Bonnie Tyler – There are multiple versions of this song, originally recorded by Tyler. Artists who have covered the classic include Frou Frou, Emery and Graveworm.
“Master of the Treadmill” by Ok Go – The band Ok Go created an album specifically designed for exercisers. They include multiple hit songs and a thirty minute treadmill song that is designed to help keep up the pace and rhythm for a great treadmill workout.
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Cameron Naish at cameron.naish@colorado.edu.
