Music to Your Abs

Athletes know that listening to music can improve their performance, but what works for Aaron Rodgers might not work for you.

In a recent study, British researchers split more than 60 runners into two groups. People in the first group created unique workout playlists, while the second group was assigned pre-made playlists containing songs of varying workout intensity levels. The results: It didn’t matter what music the runners listened to—all that didmatter was whether or not the runners themselves considered the music “motivational.” Participants who rated their music as motivating reported significantly greater improvements in their performance.

But how “motivational” a song is differs from person to person, says Andrew Lane, author of the study. So you shouldn’t necessarily put “I Believe I Can Fly” on repeat when you’re headed to the gym (unless that song really doespump you up).

“If you like Lady Gaga, listen to her. If you like heavy metal bands, listen to them. Go for what you enjoy. The music has to work for you,” Lane says.

Don’t have time to put together your own playlist? Try Pandora. The online and mobile music service recently released 12 workout stations, with choices like ’80s cardio, classic rock, and country fitness.

“At the gym, everyone’s listening to the same music piped over the speakers,” says Pandora founder Tim Westergren. “It’s usually geared toward a large crowd, so it’s generic and monotonous. With our workout stations, you have no idea what’s in the queue. Each new song gives you a burst of energy.”’