Runners participate in the Rock n Roll 10k and Half Marathon Run on February 27, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada (© Kyle Rivas/Getty Images for Rock 'n' Roll Running Series)
Running and music go hand in hand, say many runners, but it's generally true that whether you listen to Mozart or Lady Gaga, music has a positive effect. It inspires, boost your mood and lifts your spirits. It seems logical, then, not to go running without your favourite music list.
Running with or without music is a highly controversial topic even in scientific circles. But research has shown that rhythmic tunes can boost performance and delay the feeling of fatigue. What's more, we'll have better energy efficiency, a better mood and every beat will encourage us to keep going.
Sports psychologists say that choosing your music well can not only make your run faster, it can also make it last longer, not to mention the fun factor. It can be worth browsing Spotify, for example, but before you do, it's a good idea to decide what pace you want to run at and what genres of music you like.
Many people think that very fast-paced music can lead to a high-intensity workout, but the principle of everything in moderation applies here too. Practically speaking, you warm up to different music, run at a different tempo on harder days, and wind down to slower tempo music. Nowadays you can find lists specifically designed to keep you on the pace without thinking.
Here are some collections of music for running:
A compilation by American distance runner Des Linden.
Rebecca Trachsel, coach and Masters runner, updates her selection every week with music from a variety of genres.
You can run for up to 24 hours on this selection, which contains a huge range of songs and is updated frequently.
Spotify – Classical for Running
If you think great classical music isn't suitable for a sweaty run, try this list. You'll be surprised at the results.
RunnersCalendar.com's selection for beginners and advanced runners.
Beast Mode's selection lives up to its name by doing nothing less than unleashing the beast within us. The nine-hour collection is hugely popular, with each track inspiring us to try and achieve our running goals.
