Research suggests that diversification in the tempo and type of music is key. A fast, high intensity song may be great for hard intervals, but a catchy, lighthearted tune is likely better for an easy long run. While every runner has his or her own musical preferences, here are 10 of our top picks.
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Top 10 Timeless Tunes for Your Workout Playlist
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Whether you rely on music to get amped before races and workouts or prefer to jam out on the run, there's no doubt that the right beats can make a difference when it comes to performance. Research has shown that running with music can lower perceived exertion, boost time to exhaustion, and improve running economy. Even in time trials as short as 400 meters, studies demonstrate that synchronous music can boost performance.
Research suggests that diversification in the tempo and type of music is key. A fast, high intensity song may be great for hard intervals, but a catchy, lighthearted tune is likely better for an easy long run. While every runner has his or her own musical preferences, here are 10 of our top picks.
Research suggests that diversification in the tempo and type of music is key. A fast, high intensity song may be great for hard intervals, but a catchy, lighthearted tune is likely better for an easy long run. While every runner has his or her own musical preferences, here are 10 of our top picks.
Born to Run
Bruce Springsteen
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Ranked on many "greatest songs of all time" lists, Born to Run is one you can't help picking up the pace for. At around 150 beats per minute, this critically acclaimed tune is perfect to play during tempo runs.
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Running GearThe Distance
Cake
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Not only is this song full of lyrics that resonate with runners, it touts a 90 beats-per-minute tempo, which matches the ideal running cadence of 180 foot strikes per minute or 90 per foot. The 1996 hit employs everything from guitar, bass, drums and synthesized sounds to keep you moving forward during a workout or race.
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Running GearRunnin' Down a Dream
Tom Petty
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This 1989 classic has become a favorite among runners both for its lyrics and beat. It also hits the 180 beats-per-minute sweet spot, so it keeps you on track if you're looking to train for a faster leg turnover.
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Running GearLose Yourself
Eminem
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Characterized by hardcore, aggressive lyrics that surround a theme of overcoming obstacles, this one rings true for runners when they hit the wall. The song earned Eminem a whopping five Grammy Award nominations and the Academy Award for best original song.
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Running GearEye of the Tiger
Survivor
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Who could forget this fist-pumping motivational anthem made famous in Rocky III? This is one that will make you embrace the thrill of fighting through a rough moment of a race or battling a rival to the finish line like no other.
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Running GearStronger
Kanye West
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Inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche's words, "What does not kill him, makes him stronger," Kanye West put forth one of the most rousing running tracks in existence. With the inclusion of a sample of Daft Punk's "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger" dropped in, you can't help but push.
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Running GearThunderstruck
AC/DC
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This top pick from the famous hard rock group can't help but leave you feeling thunderstruck. Its aggressive and hard-charging lyrics and sound will get you amped for competition.
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Running GearBeautiful Day
U2
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If you're looking for something a bit more lighthearted and uplifting, you'll be hard pressed to find anything that rivals Beautiful Day. This is an ideal track for those early morning runs when you're trying to get your engine started.
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Running GearStart Me Up
Rolling Stones
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The rhythmic thump of Start Me Up will have any runner moving to its beat. Starting with a classic Keith Richards guitar riff followed by a catchy and persistent back beat, this song can only be described as addictive.
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Running GearHere It Goes Again
OK Go
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If you've seen the incredible treadmill choreography in this music video, you'll understand why it makes such a worthy running song. This snappy hit from OK Go will light a fire under any runner, whether you're hitting the mill, the trails, or the road.