With back to school around the corner and summer coming to an end, you may be considering getting back into your workout routine. For myself, one thing that really keeps me motivated and pushes me through my workout is an awesome playlist. There’s something about the way music affects your mood that can make a boring workout exciting.
Think about it, the movie Rocky would be quite different if it didn’t feature the song Eye of the Tiger, don’t you think?
An “ultimate” workout playlist contains songs that pump you up, get you moving, and make you want to push yourself. Before I reveal what songs help me take my workout to the next level, here are some tips to consider when creating the ultimate workout playlist.
Tips to creating a workout playlist
Your first song is more important than you realize. The first song that you hear really sets the tone for your workout. You want something that isn’t too fast but builds you up gradually. You want that first track to have just the right tempo and encouraging lyrics to keep you motivated for the next 30 to 60 minutes.
Your playlist should also have a variety of genres. Not to say it isn’t beneficial to stick to only one genre, but using a variety can also create variety in your workout.
Another great tip is to find music that has meaningful lyrics. It doesn’t have to be touching, but something that creates emotion in you so that you push yourself. For example, if you’ve just experienced a break-up, choosing some empowering post-breakup jams can really get you going.
Finding tunes that are personal to you is also beneficial. This means picking tunes that maybe remind you a great trip, an occasion, or an important time in your life. Listening to songs that were played during happy occurrences can boost your mood and make your workout more enjoyable.
The second-to-last tip is to pick upbeat, pop music. Studies have shown that people work out better to this style of music. So, you may want to skip the alternative or slower jams.
Lastly, make sure you are choosing a slower track for your cool down.
Song suggestions for the ultimate workout playlist
Now that you have some tips on how to create your own ultimate workout playlist, here are some song suggestions that you can try.
- Can’t Hold Us – Macklemore ft. Ryan Lewis
- Can’t Hold Us Down – Axwell /\ Ingrosso
- Firehouse – Daddy Yankee ft. Play N Skillz
- Pray to God – Calvin Harris Ft. HAIM
- Heroes (We could be) – Alesso Ft. Tov Lo
- This Is What You Came For – Calvin Harris Ft. Rihanna
- Firestone – Kygo Pump It – Black Eyed Peas
- Five More Hours – Deorro x Chris Brown
- Runaway (U & I) – Galantis
- Run the World (Girls) – Beyonce
- By Your Side – Jonas Blue Ft. RAYE
- Somebody – Patrice Roberts
I think this is a good start for now. Like I said, these are just some suggestions that I find to help motivate me and make my workouts more enjoyable. Give them a listen and you may find they help you too.
Workouts can be a drag, but music can definitely help as long as you put on something that speaks to you and keeps you moving.
Happy workout and until next time!
Emily Lunardo
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