In order to see success in the gym, you have to work out with intensity. This means no taking shortcuts, no wimping out, and no calling it quits. Every set and every rep has to be done with purpose and concentration.
A lot of guys use preworkout supplements in order to get into this type of state. They use caffeine or other stimulants to hype them up. Preworkout supplements can be useful, but sometimes it’s better not to rely on them because of the potential side effects. In fact, there’s a much better pre-workout alternative: Music.
Step into any hardcore gym, or look at athletes warming up and preparing to battle- they are always listening to music. Music has a powerful effect on our minds, as it can completely change the state we’re in. Successful bodybuilders in particular use this to their advantage by getting themselves pumped up to take on an intense weightlifting session.
Type of Music to Listen to
Of course, what type of music you listen to is dependent on personal taste. However, there are certain musical genres that are much better suited for the gym. This includes rock, rap, metal, most pop, and EDM among other genres. The reason that these genres are good for exercise is that they have a high rate of ‘Beats per Minute’ (BPM). While listening to this music, your body will adapt its speed to the beat of the music. This means country and classical are both left for home because they’ll probably only slow you down. So save those genres for home.
Choosing Your Device
If you already have a phone or MP3 player then that’s great. You want something that isn’t too big and bulky, that will throw you off from your workout. You should also set up your music in a playlist. Too often gym-goers get distracted by their music, constantly having to look for the perfect song. This only detracts from a workout and should be avoided.
These days there are so many workout playlists to choose from online. Pick a music app or website, or create your own playlist by using songs from your music library.
A List of Songs
Here’s a few of our favorite songs from the best genres for exercising:
EDM
“D.A.N.C.E.” by Justice
D.A.N.C.E. has a sweet beat to sweat to. It’s not super uptempo, but is perfect for warming up and doing cardio. The groovy rhythm, pop vocals and electronic sound are perfect for any ear.
“Levels” by Avicii
This song dominated the airwaves for a while- and for good reason. It’s got a fun beat that will keep your heart pumping.
“Sandstorm” by Darude
A classic house song from the ‘90s that’s designed to do nothing but get you hyped!
“Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” by Daft Punk
Daft punk is known for its funky beats. Plus this song makes you feel like your workout is coming down to the wire, and that you need to give it everything you’ve got!
“Reload” by Sebastian Ingrosso and Tommy Trash
This is one that will really pump you up and help you out when powerlifting.
Rock
“Bleed it Out” by Linkin Park
Linkin Park’s lyrics will make you grind out those last few reps. And when your workout is getting tough, you can sweat it out with this track.
“Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes
Everyone knows the first few seconds of this song. When it comes on your playlist, it’s go time!
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
There’s a reason this is such a popular song for getting pumped up- even for Rocky! It’s perfect for getting focused and prepared for battle.
“Thunderstruck” by AC/DC
AC/DC has a lot of great songs for the gym. Thunderstruck, however, provides pounding lyrics and instrumentals.
“Master of Puppets” by Metallica
When you need a song to set a new personal best to, this is it.
“Another One Bites The Dust” by Queen
Great classic rock for the gym. Queen’s lyrics are always good to get you hyped.
“Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin
When your workout is going down to the wire, Black Dog is “gonna make you sweat, gonna make you groove.”
“American Idiot” by Green Day
These upbeat riffs and intense lyrics will help you crush every set in the gym.
“The Final Countdown” by Europe
When your workout is almost over, you’re drenched in sweat and think you have nothing left—it’s time for the ‘Final countdown.’.
Rap/Hip-Hop
“Momma Said Knock You Out” by LL Cool J
There’s no better song for shadow boxing or hitting the heavy bag. LL Cool J goes hard and channels that energy right into your ears.
“Straight Outta Compton” by NWA
NWA. The Pioneers of Gangsta Rap. Needless to say this song has attitude.
The guys who started gangsta rap changed everything on this one back in ’88. To this day I don’t know of too many other songs that get me more jacked up.
“99 Problems” by Jay-Z
Awesome beats and even better lyrics. Perfect for hitting the weight room hard.
“Stronger” by Kanye West
The name of this song is stronger. Enough said.
“Till I Collapse” by Eminem Featuring Nate Dogg
When you need to keep going, and not ‘collapse’, turn on this hardcore Eminem track.
“Lose Yourself” by Eminem
Another excellent Eminem track. It’s highly motivating and will make you want to have an incredible workout.
Pop
“Here It Goes Again” by OK Go
With it’s fun, pop-rock rhythm, this song is perfect for a long cardio session.
“Push It” by Salt ‘n Pepa
When you need that extra boost, this song will remind you to ‘Push It’.
Other
“Five More Hours” by Deorro and Chris Brown
Pop and EDM music combine to create this unique song that will be sure to raise your energy level.
“Remember the Name” by Fort Minor
This song isn’t as hard hitting as others, but it’s a song that will keep you fighting until you can’t anymore.
“Centuries” by Fall Out Boy
This song has been getting a ton of airtime lately, as it appeals to all types of music fans. The lyrics and rhythm are awesome for a cardio session.
Wrap-Up
Certainly you’ll find a few songs to love on this list. Use them to make your own personal playlist that will help you skyrocket your success in the gym.
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