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Amp Up Your Workout Routine!
Have you ever shown up to the gym ready to sweat, only to realize you forgot your headphones at home? We feel you — there’s just something way more motivating about listening to your favorite jams while working out (especially if it’s a quarantine workout).
There’s no doubt that music has a huge impact on us emotionally. There are countless times that music brings us together, has us feeling the feels, sets the mood and tone for an evening, or reminds us of a favorite moment in our life. But did you know that music can also impact us physically?
Yep! You read that correctly. There are many recent studies on physiology and exercise proving that listening to certain types of music can enhance your workout. And let us tell you, the science behind it is fascinating. Read on to learn some tips about what you should listen to while you’re tearing up the treadmill or doing that hiit workout at home.
Shake It Off and Sweat
Music can lift our spirits, specifically dopamine levels, scientists say. Dopamine is a chemical produced by our brains that creates a “feel good”, uplifting effect. Dopamine has recently been proven to release when we listen to our favorite music. Now that’s something to smile about!
Dopamine release actually ties into physical endurance. Research shows that we can inspire ourselves to push harder and longer during our workouts by playing motivational songs. Plus, scientists say that upbeat music is better for increasing performance during high intensity workouts. Listening to something that amps you up is a big motivation to keep pedaling during those last fifteen minutes of SoulCycle class.
Listen to the Rhythm of Your Heart
Did you know that your heart rate can actually synchronize with the music you’re listening to? Scientists call this phenomenon entrainment. If you’re listening to something that gets your heart rate up, it actually focuses your body and mind on what you are doing. But are there different tempos that researchers have found ideal for different kinds of workouts? You bet!
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) recommends listening to slower songs when you are warming up and stretching. As for more strenuous exercise like heavy weightlifting or interval training, switching to high energy tunes can help keep you focused and motivated. Sound familiar (ehem, your 2020 workout playlist)?
What Else Can Music Do?
As mentioned earlier, music has many positive benefits, including:
- Heart Health: Listening to music has been found to correlate with altering brain chemistry, allowing for better workout performance, as well as a quicker return to your normal heart rate (which can reduce cardiac stress).
- Memory Recall: Neurologists have found that listening to familiar music or pleasurable tunes can support people who have lost their memories or are having trouble remembering how to do something.
- Physical Pain: Relaxing music is proven to release endorphins, which are linked with the same pathways that recognize pain. Music is reported by patients to decrease their perception of nausea, sharp pains, and anxiety.
For an additional boost (and to help you power through every track in your workout playlist), try mixing up a packet of Energy Multiplier (Link opens in new window.) in your water bottle. Its sweet yet zesty notes of lemon mix with a subtle hint of citrus ginger to kick-start your day and upgrade your vibe. Stay hydrated, stay motivated, and stay grooving to the beat!