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The influence of music on sport performance may often be overlooked, but research has shown it it can be pivotal. Music and sport, rhythym and movement go hand in hand, and this can be significant for athletes, or even the average person working out.
For performers, music can be one of the most important parts of their routine. Whether in training or before competing, there’s a high chance your favourite star will be using music to boost their performance.
Whilst we listen to songs for enjoyment, it has a bigger effect on you than you may realise. Key parts of your brain become activated when you’re listening to music, which then plays a vital role in peak athletic performance.
Training can be tough, there’s no doubt, yet songs are proven to lower perception of effort and increase your output levels. The stress hormone Cortisol is produced in your brain, which of course can have a detrimental effect on your sessions. Although simply adding some tunes to your activity can reduce these levels.
In simpler terms, working out accompanied by a specific soundtrack may lead to a more enjoyable session, with the bonus of seeing better results.
Fatigue is proven to be delayed when listening to music too. Ultimately, a more enjoyable and potentially longer workout, is a huge bonus.
Sport scientist, Ben Edwards, is someone that knows just how beneficial music can be. In his research he found that the subject’s heart rate and total distance covered on a bike increased when listening to music with an increased tempo.
He said: ‘’We found that the reps per minute (or movements you do for the exercise), begins to align with the music’s increase in tempo. So then when you work harder, your heart rate and work rate also increase.
‘’Effectively the music is making your legs move faster, and you match your pacing strategy to what you’re listening to.”
Although Edwards stresses the importance of listening to music that you enjoy, as tempo doesn’t matter, if you don’t enjoy the selection of music.
His research is proven to work for excercise enthusiasts, but there are many other factors that play into an elite athlete’s training than simply altering their music choice.
Although, Olympic rower James Cracknell swears by Red Hot Chilli Peppers and their constant rhythms, as the tempo matches his movements.
Additionally, a song’s lyrics may also be something you pay attention to. There are studies to show that songs with positive, uplifting lyrics can lead to greater performance.
Michael Phelps cites Lil Wayne’s self-assured lyrics in I’m Me as his pre-performance inspiration, and with 23 Olympic golds to his name it’s hard to say it hasn’t worked.
There is no definitive rule for what music should motivate you and help deliver your best results, only you know what works. But next time you’re in the gym, try something with a quicker tempo and see for yourself.