You probably want some fast-beat music when you are lacing up your sneakers to go for a run. The same can be said for the opposite; if you are getting a massage or taking a yoga class, then a gentler flow and softer sounds are most likely appropriate.
It’s true; your chosen music can most certainly affect your workout. Research has shown us time and time again that music can be just one of several different motivating factors throughout an exercise routine!
Music and Workouts
One fantastic example can be a study done by the International Journal of Sports Medicine; three different cycling trials were performed in this particular study. The first was with no music involved, the second played music to begin and then stopped halfway, and then the third only played music during the final half of the trial. Results demonstrated that the cyclists pedaled faster during the second trial when the music kicked off the 10k.
Another study from Frontiers in Psychology found that music with a quick tempo – between 170 and 190 beats per minute – is perfect for those looking for a motivational boost during a long run, cycling session, or even rowing! In addition, these faster beats have been shown to decrease the perceived exertion of a workout, especially those considered aerobic.
The correlation between music and workouts isn’t new to fitness specialists; they are probably some of the most well-versed individuals when planning out a workout session and pairing it with the right music for the participants! Music affects how we perceive a workout; it can also affect us physically. Heart rate and blood pressure variability are noted with the inclusion of music and can be beneficial for those looking to calm down and even recover.
What Music to Choose
So what are some of the best genres of music to give your workout a bit of a boost? That will depend on the style of exercise you are doing. Pounding the pavement or hopping into a cycling class on your lunch break? Pop, hip-hop, and rock music are perfect for this activity since the music is fast and powerful with rhythmic beats.
Are you attending a yoga class after work and looking to wind down? Then soft rock or alternative music with more soothing beats might be an excellent choice to help you nail those balancing poses.
Musical Effects
According to the American Council on Exercise, music can affect your workout positively in four different ways: this includes decreasing your perceived level of fatigue, boosting your brain’s arousal (and, therefore, your workout performance), increasing your movement and overall coordination, and relaxing you (thereby also improving performance levels).
Bottom Line
So how do you pick the music for your workout? If you’re starting with a slower-paced warm-up, then slower music is ideal; as you increase your heart rate and dive into the meat of your workout, choosing music with an upbeat tempo is key. Once your training is complete, finding songs that can guide you through your cool down and decrease your heart rate is ideal – most often done with music that is a bit calmer. Once you’ve got an idea of the tempo of your music, prepare yourself to improve your performance and thoroughly enjoy a heart-pounding workout!
