Let’s not even pretend that a playlist brimming with Run-D.M.C., Queen Yonce herself, and The Beastie Boys doesn’t get you absolutely jacked while you’re getting in a nice jog on the treadmill; but on that same hand, have you ever tried listening to say, jazz clarinet while you’re doing some serious cardio? It just doesn’t slap, as the kids say. Of course, science has some input for us, so if you’re having a hard time finding a playlist that gets you going, scientists have once again come to the rescue. Let’s take a look at the best workout songs according to science!
But first… you may be wondering what makes a song ideal for working out? The answer is simple: tempo and intensity. Aside from these two variables, scientists also found that songs that are familiar to us tend to put a little spring in our step.
Okay, on to the music! Now, just so we’re clear, there are a ton of songs that are ideal for working out, the important factors are, the ones listed above, duh, but specifically ‘BPM’, or beats per minute which is a fancier way of talking about tempo. When you’re working out, the higher the BPM, the better. The following songs have a BPM that tip the scales at 130+.
It’s Tricky – RUN-D.M.C.
(image via: oprah daily)
This speech is my recital, I think it’s very vital / To rock (a rhyme), that’s right (on time) / It’s Tricky is the title, here we go…
Listen here!
Sabotage – Beastie Boys
I can’t stand it, I know you planned it / I’m gonna set it straight, this Watergate / I can’t stand rocking when I’m in here / ‘’Cause your crystal ball ain’t so crystal clear
Listen here!
Snap Yo Fingers – Lil Jon
(image via: newsweek)
Come on, say it with us: Snap ya fingers! Do ya step! / You can do it all by yo’ self!
Listen here!
Wow. – Post Malone
Said she tired of lil’ money, need a big boy / Pull up twenty inch blades like I’m Lil’ Troy / Now it’s everybody flockin’, need a decoy / Shawty mixin’ up the vodka with the LaCroix, yeah…
Listen here!
Lose Control – Milly Elliot
I’ve got a cute face / Chubby waist / Thick legs in shape / Rump shaking both ways / Make you do a double-take / Plan rocker show stopper…
Listen here!
Press – Cardi B
Press, press, press, press, press / Cardi don’t need more press / Kill ’em all, put them girls to rest / Walk in, bulletproof vest / Please tell me who she gon’ check
Listen here!
Bang, Bang – Jessie J, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj
(image via: the independent)
She got a body like an hourglass / But I can give it to you all the time / She got a booty like a Cadillac / But I can send you into overdrive
Listen here!