The Psychophysiological Effects of Different Tempo Music on Endurance Versus High-Intensity Performances
FRONTIERS IN PSYCHOLOGY

I’ve noticed that I’m heady about headphones. There were times this quarter when I was so inundated with thoughts and information that I craved the peace of a quiet ride or jog. More often, however, are the times when I’m unmotivated, tired, or it’s raining. These days require a big push, and music often seems to do the trick to get me from sitting at home to lacing up my Hokas.

This research intended to understand how music at different tempos can enhance exercise. 19 participants were analyzed while they exercised with four different music speeds: no music, with music at 90–110 bpm (LOW), with music at 130–150 bpm (MED), and with music at 170–190 bpm (HIGH). The exercises were either low intensity (walking on a treadmill) or high-intensity (leg presses), and researchers monitored their heart rate and perceived exertion.

"We found that listening to high-tempo music while exercising resulted in the highest heart rate and lowest perceived exertion compared with not listening to music," explained Professor Luca P. Ardigò of the University of Verona in Italy. "This means that the exercise seemed like less effort, but it was more beneficial in terms of enhancing physical fitness."

Takeaway
Music can distract from fatigue and discomfort, while increasing the time you spend moving. According to this research, high-tempo music can also relieve some of the suckiness that accompanies a difficult workout, leading to improved endurance. This week I tried the Spotify playlist aptly called “Run ‘N’ Bass 170-175 BPM,” which, alongside my Hokas, contributed to me no longer despising running.

So, the next time you’re pounding the pavement at 7pm on a Wednesday, as the rain soaks through your socks, turn it up to 170 BPM and keep moving.