You wake up in the morning and go about your usual business. Get ready and go to the gym. But you’re missing a spark. Suddenly you hear your favorite song playing in the background, and voila, you get that boost of energy to make the most of your session. Listening to music while exercising not only relieves boredom, but can also increase your endurance and improve your mood. Yes, listening to musings while exercising can have physical and psychological effects.
Health Shots contacted Jaisleen Kaur, Image Consultant, Soft Skills Trainer & Life Coach, Dehradun, to know the benefits of listening to music while exercising.
How can listening to music while exercising improve your workout?
The synergy between rhythmic beats and physical movement is not merely a coincidence. It is rooted in the intricate workings of our brains and bodies.
1. Music creates a synchronization between body and beat
“It is known that music has a unique quality: the ability to synchronize with the movements of our body. This phenomenon is known as rhythmic entrainment and occurs when our movements match the tempo of the music,” says the expert. Training our bodies to the beat improves energy efficiency, increasing endurance and overall performance. As the beat accompanies our steps, our training becomes not just a physical effort, but a rhythmic dance of body and melody.
2. Brains respond to music
Behind the scenes, our brains respond to music by releasing dopamine, the pleasure-inducing neurotransmitter. This release creates a feeling of pleasure and reward, reducing the perception of effort and discomfort during exercise. The result? An increased sense of fun and motivation encourages us to take on challenges and reach new fitness heights.
3. Music distracts attention from fatigue
A tough workout can be tiring and you may feel more tired than fun. Music can act as an effective distraction from feelings of fatigue and pain. By engaging our attention, it diverts our attention from physical discomfort, making the exercise feel less strenuous. This distraction effect allows individuals to persevere longer and undertake more intense activities, turning a potentially grueling workout into an enjoyable experience.”
4. Music can motivate
Music can evoke strong emotions and memories. When a song resonates emotionally, it increases motivation and determination. Positive emotions generated by music increase self-confidence and self-esteem, allowing individuals to set and achieve higher fitness goals. The emotional connection with music transforms exercise from a routine task to a deeply personal and motivating journey.
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Also read: Playing the piano can be good for the mind! 4 Ways Music Benefits Mental Health
5. Music can improve focus during exercise
“By engaging with music on a cognitive level, you get your mind moving for a better workout. Predicting the next beat or understanding complex musical patterns improves focus and concentration,” says the expert. This cognitive involvement allows precise movements and coordination during exercise, especially in activities that require complex motor skills. The brain training, combined with exercise, improves overall cognitive function.
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6. Reduces perceived exertion
Music has the remarkable ability to reduce perceived exertion. When individuals feel that their workout is less strenuous, they are encouraged to exercise longer and at a higher intensity. This change in the perception of effort transforms the exercise narrative, making physical activity not only easier but also more enjoyable.
7. Listening to music while exercising is a personal experience
“One of the most unique benefits of incorporating music into exercise routines is that you can personalize the experience. Each person has unique musical preferences, and finding the right genre or playlist can create a customized workout atmosphere. Whether it is the soothing melodies of classical music for yoga or the energetic beats of hip hop for intense cardio, the music can be tailored to individual tastes and fitness goals,” says the expert.