Workout Songs
Nothing motivates like music. I can be convinced there’s just no way I can work out today, but I as I mentioned on the exercise motivation tips page, I get my workout clothes on anyway and start, and once those tunes are grooving, I can’t help but get into the zone. So I thought I’d share the workout playlist from my iPod.
I grew up in the ’70s and ’80s, which will probably be obvious as you peruse the list! There’s also new stuff, though. They are linked to iTunes for your convenience if you’d like to give a listen or download them.
Here we go!
Another Brick in the Wall Pt. 2 by Pink Floyd
It helps if you shout along, “Hey! Teacher! Leave those kids alone!”
Another One Bites the Dust by Queen
This is a good one to change the lyrics to, “Another pound bites the dust! Hey, I’m gonna get you, too, another pound bites the dust!”
Anyway (Dance Mix) by Amber
These club and dance mixes have such a driving beat, it’s tough for your body not to respond.
Are You Gonna Be My Girl by Jet
It took a while for this song to grow on me, but now it gets me going.
Baby Likes To Rock It by the Tractors
This is one of the few country songs in my workout playlist. Not many have the upbeat tempo and danceability of this one.
Bailamos by Enrique Iglesias
Ah, let the rhythm take you over.
Barely Listening by Pilot Speed
This one isn’t as light in tone but has a good beat.
Better Be Good To Me by Tina Turner
Good song for warming up or cooling down, since the tempo is a little slower than the others.
Blinded By the Light by Manfred Mann’s Earth Band
Depending on which version you have, it can be as long as seven minutes, but it keeps you going the whole time.
Blow It Out by the Features
If you’re happy and you know it, turn the volume up and blow it out!
Boogie Oogie Oogie by Taste of Honey
Nothing like a little disco to get you moving.
Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf
A little attitude!
Buddy Holly by Weezer
The video is even more fun if you’re from the “Happy Days” generation.
Call Me by Blondie
Blondie appears a few times in my overall list because the songs are so catchy. Yes, I know only “old” people use the word “catchy.”
Can’t Get You Out of My Head by Kylie Minogue
Might be tough to get this song out of your head, but if you like it, it’s great to move to.
Crazy by Gnarls Barkley
This is another one with a little more laid-back beat, but it’s so smooth, I love it.
Dance Hall Days by Wang Chung
The chugging beat is impossible to resist.
Do You Believe In Love by Huey Lewis and the News
The beat isn’t necessarily the most outstanding part of this song, but it’s so upbeat and fun.
Don’t Bring Me Down by ELO
ELO is just so awesome. And who’s Brrrrrruce, by the way? I found this at amiright.com: Jim Grieve adds: “Yes, ‘Grroosss’ is the actual word (taken straight off the lyric sheet). Jeff Lynne says it’s just a word he made up. Although Mack (the German engineer who worked on this album) noted that it sounded kind of like the German word for ‘good morning’ (’guten Morgen’). Most folks think it sounds like they’re singing ‘Bruce.’ For that reason, when the song is performed these days, Jeff will sing ‘Bruce’ instead.”
Fast As You by Dwight Yoakam
A relentless beat keeps you going.
Goodnight and Go by Imogen Heap
There’s not a heavy beat in this song, but it’s up-tempo and is a nice break between faster songs.
Grease by Frankie Valli
This one brings back lots of memories and makes me want to dance.
Great DJ by the Ting Tings
Doesn’t make much sense but hey, the drums, the drums, the drums, the drums, the drums…
Groove Is In the Heart by Deee-Lite
If my workout is ending as this song comes on, I keep going—can’t help myself.
Happy Together by Simple Plan
The first time I heard this, I thought, What have they done to this song? But now I love it, especially the “EASE! MY! MIND!” part.
He by Amber
This electronic dance number reminds me of a Donna Summer disco song.
Heart of Glass by Blondie
I still have trouble remembering some of the words, but it’s irresistible to move to.
Heaven Must Have Sent You by Bonnie Pointer
It’s over 7 minutes long, but it’s just so happy and funky.
Here It Goes Again by Ok Go
There probably aren’t many people left who haven’t seen the video to this song, but if you haven’t, you must. At the very least, it might get you interested in your treadmill again.
I Drove All Night by Celine Dion
Yes, there are some Celine songs that are good for exercise, and this is one of my favorites.
I Love the Nightlife (Disco ‘Round) by Alicia Bridges
“I want some ak-SHONE, I wanna live!”
I Turn To You (Hex Hector Radio Mix) by Melanie C.
Love, love, love the beat!
I Want You To Want Me by Cheap Trick
What good is a playlist without Cheap Trick?
I’m Alive by Celine Dion
A little more mellow. Great for warm-ups and cool-downs.
I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by the Proclaimers
How can you not love a song where the guy promises to pass almost every penny he earns on to you?
I’ve Been Thinking About You by Londonbeat
One of my favorites; I’m always glad when it comes on.
In My Arms (Bimbo Jones Radio Edit) by Plumb
There are several remixes available and a slower version.
Independent Women Pt. 1 by Destiny’s Child
A song to make you feel powerful.
Jive Talkin’ by the Bee Gees
If this song doesn’t make you want to move, better check your pulse.
Just a Girl by No Doubt
Just be Gwen Stefani for three and a half minutes.
Just What I Needed by the Cars
Ah, the Cars. A big part of the ‘80s experience for me. And great for working out to.
Ladies Night by Kool & the Gang
A smooth groove with a mellow beat.
Lady by Lenny Kravitz
“She’s cool, she’s divine…” Very motivating beat and lyrics.
Let’s Go by the Cars
This is a great one to warm up to and tell yourself Let’s Go!
Listen Up! by the Gossip
This one builds as it goes and keeps you moving. The link goes to a different version than I have, but it's similar.
Love is a Battlefield by Pat Benatar
A little trivia: Pat Benatar’s birth name is Patricia Mae Andrzejewski.
Love Me Like You by the Magic Numbers (apparently this song is no longer available on iTunes although their other music is)
This is upbeat and very ‘50s/’60s inspired, although the band was formed in 2002.
Mercy by Duffy
Great beat, cool voice. I downloaded this after hearing it on a preview for a TV show, can’t remember which one.
Miracle by Cascada
A dance hit with a great hook.
Miss Independent by Kelly Clarkson
This might be a good one for interval training. Take it slower during the verses and then hit the exercise hard during the chorus.
Need You Tonight by INXS
Low-key beat but compelling.
New Shoes by Paolo Nutini
Kind of a happy, mellow song.
More songs to come soon!
