By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Music can make workouts more enjoyable, but experts say the wrong playlist may actually hurt your performance.
One common mistake is listening to music you don’t like. Even if a song is popular on fitness playlists, it may reduce motivation if it isn’t your style. Experts say enjoying your music can make exercise feel easier and help you stick with a routine.
While the right tracks can boost endurance and make intense exercise feel easier, listening to the wrong songs, mismatched tempos, or excessively loud audio can ruin your momentum, kill your gains, and even cause long-term hearing damage.
Another issue is choosing songs with the wrong tempo. Slower music works best for warm-ups and cool-downs, while faster-paced songs can boost energy during activities such as running, cycling, or high-intensity interval training. Matching the music to the intensity of your workout can improve focus and performance.
If you are running or cycling outdoors, consider lowering the volume or using open-ear bone conduction headphones so you can remain aware of your surroundings.
Music can also become a distraction. While energetic songs can help pass the time, workouts that require concentration—such as strength training—may suffer if the music pulls your attention away from proper form. Poor technique can reduce results and increase the risk of injury.
Researchers recently found that people exercising while listening to music they personally enjoyed increased their endurance by nearly 20 percent compared to workouts without music.
Experts recommend creating playlists that fit both your musical preferences and workout goals. The right music can improve motivation, increase endurance, and make exercise feel more manageable.
Source: Mayo Clinic and fitness research studies.