Crank Up The Volume For a Better Workout!

March 3 2014

Crank Up The Volume For a Better Workout!

Ever notice how you work out longer and harder when listening to music? Whether you’re going for a jog around the neighborhood or performing a full-body strength training regimen at the local gym, music can improve your routine. Most people listen to their MP3 players for the simple fact that it’s fun, but there’s now evidence supporting its workout benefits.

As first reported by the Washington Post, researchers at the University of Wisconsin found a direct link between music synchronization and workout movements. By listening to the right type of music, your body will naturally move in rhythm with the music, which translates into the a more effective workout session. The repetitive movements of lifting weights or using a machine at your gym can push your body beyond its normal limits, and this is the secret to breaking out of the workout plateau that so many people suffer from.

In order to maximize the workout benefit of your playlist, you must choose music with an energetic beat and continuous rhythm. Listening to slow songs could actually have the opposite effect by decreasing your workout potential. Stick with uplifting songs that naturally boost your energy and make you feel like moving.

I recommend playing around with music from several different songs and artists to see what works and what doesn’t.

Deekron Krikorian, who produces fitness playlists for MotionTraxx, said the following:

"Music is positive energy. So when I put together playlists, I look for intensity, positive feeling and cohesiveness… The beat becomes very important anytime there is repetitive movement Our instincts tell us to move to the beat. Our feet tell us to move to the beat."

Another reason why you should listen to music while you work out is because it keeps track of time. Let’s say you you want to work out for exactly one hour, no more, no less. Rather than keeping your eyes fixated on the clock, you can build a playlist on your MP3 player that’s exactly one hour long. Once the playlist finishes, you know you’ve worked out for a solid hour.

The next time you’re getting ready to head out to the gym, be sure to bring your MP3 player. Not only will it make your workout sessions a little more enjoyable, but it can also improve your exercises while helping you keep track of time in the process.