I’ve found that a good playlist is crucial to my workout. The beat of the music helps me maintain the pace and rhythm that I need to raise my heart beat, to a level where the workout is beneficial.
The first song or two can be at a slower (but not too slow) tempo that will allow you to warm up. After 5 minutes or so you should then be ready to move into a faster tempo.
If you viewed the Fitness Roadmap podcast preview you’ll probably saw the funny convo about my love for songs with words! Music – and I prefer songs – can take you places and perhaps make you forget that you’re actually working out! And let’s face it, there are days when we don’t feel like doing the work so the music inspires us.
There are so many different types of music that will work so you’re bound to put a list together that will work for you. About 12-13 songs will cover your warm up and the time that you want to rev up your activity. I have about 95 songs on my workout playlist. This gives me different options for a warm up, and different types of cardio and strength training.
For example, Harry Styles’ “Watermelon Sugar” is a good warm up. Hamilton’s “The Reynolds Pamphlet” is my go-to song when I’m swinging a kettlebell. Citizen Cope’s “Brother Lee” works well for cycling (been using that one for a few years). If you like inspirational music check out songs like Martha Muizzi’s “How Excellent” or Ron Kenoly’s version of “Call Him Up (Can’t Stop Praising)“
After a vigorous workout, you need to allow 5-10 minutes for a cool down. This is where you can use slower music. Consider “Ulay, Oh” by How I Became the Bomb (what a story there is behind this one!).
These are just a few suggestions to give you some ideas. Take a look at your music library and look at all the songs that you love. Figure out how it can inspire you while you burn calories and build muscle. Before you know it, you’ll being to listen to all sorts of songs and know exactly how to use it in your workout. Be sure to periodically update your playlist with fresh sounds so that you won’t be bored.
Just be sure that they’re songs with words!
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