Are you a runner who loves listening to music while running? You are not alone. Many runners find that music can help them get into the zone and improve their performance. But what is it about music that has such a significant impact on running performance?
Listening to music while running can have a significant impact on motivation, endurance, and overall performance. This is because music releases dopamine in your brain, which makes you feel good and motivated. This helps you maintain a steady pace, therefore reducing the amount of energy needed to run. The benefits of running with music include improved motivation and mood, increased endurance, and better focus, making running feel more enjoyable and helping you take your running to the next level.
Let’s explore the science behind the impact of music on running performance, as well as provide tips on how to create the perfect running playlist.
The Science behind the Impact of Music on Running
A lot of studies have proven music can affect a person’s mood, emotions, and physical responses. When listening to music, the brain releases dopamine which makes us feel good and motivated. This rush of dopamine can help runners push through fatigue and pain. This added motivation allows us to push through the pain and perform better than we would without this rush of dopamine.
Another reason music can improv our performance is the beat, music can help us maintain a steady pace. A steady pace can help reduce the amount of energy needed to run and improve our efficiency while running.
How to Create the Perfect Running Playlist
Creating the perfect running playlist is a personal process but, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when creating your playlist. If you are struggling, there are many pre-made running playlists you can check out online.
Choose music with a tempo that matches your stride
Research suggests that the ideal tempo for running music is between 120 and 140 beats per minute. This tempo range can help synchronise your stride and make running feel easier.
Add songs that make you feel motivated and energized
Choose songs that make you feel happy, motivated, and energised. This can be anything from upbeat pop songs to high-energy rock anthems.
Mix up genres and styles
Mixing up genres and styles may keep you engaged and motivated. You could have a variety of fast and slow songs or different genres of music.
Consider audiobooks and podcasts
If you are not a fan of music, consider listening to audiobooks or podcasts while running. This is my preferred running media. These can provide a different type of stimulation and help you pass the time more quickly.
The Benefits of Running with Music
Running with music can provide several benefits, including:
Improved motivation and mood
Music can help boost your mood and make you feel more motivated, making running feel more enjoyable.
Increased endurance
By providing a distraction from fatigue and pain, music can help you push through longer runs.
Better focus
Listening to music can help you focus on your running and tune out distractions, improving your concentration and technique.
Conclusion
By understanding the science behind the impact of music on running and creating the perfect running playlist, you can take your running to the next level. So, next time you hit the pavement, don't forget to bring your favorite tunes.