Most of us have felt that burst of energy when our favorite song comes on, pushing us to run a little faster or lift a bit heavier. But does music really help our workouts?
A new study says “yes” – and you don’t even have to listen during your exercise. Simply tuning in before you start might just give you that extra boost!
The Experiment: Does Pre-Workout Music Matter?
Professor Aron Laxdal and his team from the University of Agder were curious.
They’ve noticed that athletes don’t wear headphones during competitions, but what if they listened to some music before the big game? Would it make a difference?
Laxdal’s team chose 40 young soldiers for their experiment. These soldiers were picked because they were about the same age, likely enjoyed the same kind of music, and were all in good shape.
To keep things fair, the team had to be careful about the song choice. Ever heard “Eye of the Tiger” and felt ready to take on the world? Or maybe there’s a song that brings back bad memories?
Music can have strong connections to our past, so the team needed a song that was new to everyone. They reached out to the university’s music students and got a techno track composed just for this experiment.
Music & Exercise: What Did They Find Out?
In the experiment, these soldiers were played either a fast or slow version of this techno track, or sometimes, no music at all.
After each music session, they were asked how they felt. And for the fun part – they were put on a rowing machine for a quick, intense 30-second workout.
Now, there were two things the researchers wanted to understand:
- Feeling After the Music: How did the soldiers feel after listening? Were they more upbeat, more down, or somewhere in between?
- Ready to Row?: Were they excited and ready to get on that rowing machine?
Here’s what they found:
- Soldiers who listened to music, be it fast or slow, felt better and more ready to exercise than those who didn’t.
- Those who heard the faster tune put in more energy and effort on the rowing machine.
Simply put, if you’re going to do some exercise or take part in a sports event, listening to some good music beforehand can make you feel better and even boost your performance!
Why Does Music Have This Effect?
Music has been a part of human culture for as long as history goes back. It’s not just entertainment – it’s a way we express feelings, share stories, and more.
Over time, we’ve seen how music can motivate people, help them concentrate, or even soothe babies. There’s something about a good tune that affects our brain and body.
In exercise, music can serve as a distraction, making us less aware of our exertion. It can also elevate our mood, making the whole experience more enjoyable.
And as the experiment showed, the right kind of music can even prepare our minds and bodies for physical activity.
So, the next time you’re getting ready for a jog, a game, or just a walk in the park, maybe play some of your favorite tracks before heading out. It could make all the difference!
In Conclusion
Listening to music isn’t just good for the soul; it’s great for the body too, especially before you start exercising. Professor Laxdal’s experiment offers exciting insights into how simple tunes can have such a significant impact.
Whether you’re a gym fanatic or just someone looking to get a bit healthier, consider adding some musical motivation to your routine!
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The study was published in Music & Science.
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