While there is no perfect running playlist, there is a running playlist that will be perfect for you. The music that brings you motivation, joy, and strength is the same music that will carry you through long miles and over finish lines. Let’s make it work.
What Kind Of Music Should You Choose?
Just like running shoes, the music you run to is a deeply personal choice. Everyone’s tastes are different, as are their emotional needs. I once ran a half marathon to the Broadway soundtrack of Les Mierables. Is it traditional “running” music? Absolutely not. But I was able to get lost in the familiar story, sing along when I needed to, and distract myself from the hard parts. I would recommend looking for music with 160-180 bpm, as that normally translates to an excellent running cadence. When all else fails, you can just rely on running to the beat.
Start With A Hype Song
This is the one that’s going to rev us up and get us in the right frame of mind for the miles ahead. We all have that one song that makes us feel strong and excited. This is the time for THAT song. Keep in mind that you don’t want something that will drive you out of the gate too fast, as that may come back to bite you later on. Some of my favorites include
- Thunderstruck by AC/DC
- Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars
- Pump It by Black Eyed Peas
- Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne
Add In Some Fun Tunes
Now that you’re off to a great start, we need to keep the mood positive. It’s still early and we feel good, so let’s capitalize on that as long as we can. This block of songs should be fun and funky, great for keeping your feet light and your enthusiasm high. Need some suggestions?
- 5 Years Time by Noah And The Whale
- APT by Rose
- A Bar Song (Tipsy) by Shaboozy
Time To Dig Deep
At this point of the run or race, I need one of two things: hard bass or really long, musical style songs. Your mileage may vary. This is the time when all focus is on you and your stride, and pushing through.
- Not Like Us by Kendrick Lamar
- Lose Yourself by Eminem
- Pon De Replay by Rihanna
- Defying Gravity from the Wicked Motion Picture Soundtrack
Let’s Lift The Mood Again
You’re through (most of) the hard times, and the finish line is near. Personally, I need a little bit a transition period from the “work” portion of the run to the “payoff” part. These songs are typically a little shorter and lighter, and I like them a bit quicker, to get my feet moving for the finish.
- Carry You Home by Alex Warren
- Mr. Brightside by The Killers
- Believer by Imagine Dragons
- Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
And Now… The Victory Dance
You’re about to cross that finish line, and you need that one last song that’s going to carry you through! Ideally, it will start a little more slowly and build If you have the energy, sing along! This is your big moment and you deserve to rock out!
- Edge Of Glory by Lady Gaga
- High Hopes by Panic! At The Disco
- Unstoppable by Sia
Your Perfect Running Playlist Should Be Fun!
And there you have it: your perfect running playlist. Have fun with it, and don’t be scared to change things up! There are some great classics that are perfect for running, but new songs and artists come out all the time, too. After all, your music has to work for you, so make it yours!
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Link Up With Tuesday Topics
This year, I am joining up with Zenaida, of The Running Teacher for Tuesday Topics! Please join us every week for a new topic!
Oh, such excellent picks, Jenn! Your playlist logic is spot on – from the hype to the dig-deep tracks to the final push, it’s all so perfectly planned.
I don’t usually run with music, but I love it at races – especially at the start. I’ll never forget the goosebumps when they played an African song before Comrades and the whole crowd sang along. Pure magic!
Great picks, Jenn! I trained solo and without music for my first few marathons and never ran with music during any of my 40 marathons (I started training with friends after my first few marathons). Eventually, once I was running halves and shorter distances, I decided to give it a try and bought an iPod. 🙂
I got away from music when I run… I run with friends or listen to a podcast.
THese are great… I’ll have to add some to my playlist.
I used to be co-dependent on music until my iPod died at mile—2 of the Marine Corps Marathon. I learned if I could get through 24 miles (most of which were in torrential rain) sans music, I’d be fine without it for shorter runs/races. But, I’ve kind of brought it back, since my move to my new town. I run a lot more solo than with friends, so I appreciate the musical entertainment.
I also enjoy running with music, but have also run without it. I like a variety in Spanish and English. There are some great suggestions here!
Oooh, any recommendations?