The XSport Life

Our 2016 Fitness Playlist Suggestions

Did you know the pace of music playing while you work out affects your performance? There have been a few studies that show the strong links between beats and the body.

Faster music can lead to a faster pace, more intense music can spark more effort, and slower or calmer music can create the right atmosphere for focus, cool down and more.

Selecting the right tempo for your fitness playlist selections is important-- your own fitness level, body mechanics and the kind of workout you’re doing need to jibe with the beats per minute (BPM) if you’re going to get the most out of the accompanying tunes.

For example, a running play list with a tempo too quick for a long-legged stride can be awkward. The same is true of a beginner new to a piece of equipment, or a heavy lifting day where you’re working on careful form—slower speeds might be a better choice.

So, to get the most out of your workout music, be prepared to adjust. If you’re on a treadmill and the beat seems too slow, you might try raising to an incline to match your intensity level to the tempo of the music. If you’re feeling unmotivated in the weight room, you might try playing a hard rock song to get you pumped up.

Experts say the optimal tempo for fitness music ranges between 120 – 140 BPM. Slowed down to 80 – 90 BPM works especially well for flowing workouts like yoga or Pilates.

Here’s our selection of 12 songs you can add to your playlist for various workouts and intensity levels. We’ve indicated which songs are at a slower tempo, and which are super hard core. Put in those earphones ti enjoy some new beats and some old favorites!