subject: Music Is My Energy [print this page] Music Is My Energy Music Is My Energy
Written by Suzy
FoodForFitness.co.uk fitness instructor and guest writer
We have all been there: made the effort to get to the gym, changed into our workout gear, made it onto the cross trainer; treadmill; bike, and then, just cannot be bothered! Spend 20mins doing low intensity cardio' work and head home for dinner thinking ah well, at least I went'. Next time, take along some music. Academic research has shown that music improves mood and helps with the intensity of a work out, but you do not need academia to tell you; try it for yourself!
When you are out in a club, its two o'clock in the morning, you're tired and feel like going home. Then, the DJ plays your favourite song, "TUNE!", and out of nowhere you get a 2nd burst of energy and dance the rest of the night away. Sound familiar? Well, the same is true for when you are exercising. Good music can give you a surge of endorphins and adrenalin that can help you push it harder and longer, to levels you never knew possible. Obviously the music has to be right, if you want to reach that goal for running 10k, cycle for half an hour or row for 20mins, and you have Mozart playing through your headphones, it's not really going to work. The right style of music for the chosen activity, however, is, without a doubt beneficial to increase energy in the body. Think about it, if you play soothing, classical music when you have trouble sleeping, it calms you. The same rule applies if you need some energy and motivation. Play upbeat music, something that makes you feel good when you hear it, and you will be amazed at the impact it can have on your mood and energy levels.
Have you ever been in a fitness class where the music is so low that you can hardly hear it, the energy in the room is zero. If the instructor turns the volume up, it is amazing to see the difference in the class's reaction, energy, intensity and smiles on the faces! Get your instructor to experiment... it can be quite fun!
So people, before your next gym workout get your playlist updated with your favourite high energy tunes, see the intensity of your workout soar and let us know how you get on!!
