What Your Workout Playlist Says About You (And How It Can Boost Performance)
Let’s talk about something that can make or break your workout - your playlist.
You might not realise it, but the music you blast during a session says a LOT about you. Are you the type to go full Rocky Balboa with epic pump-up tracks? Or are you secretly training to the smooth sounds of Ed Sheeran? (No judgement… kind of.)
More importantly, the right playlist can seriously boost your performance - helping you run faster, lift heavier, and push through when your brain is screaming, “Mate, just quit.”
So, what does your workout playlist say about you? And how can you use music to level up your outdoor training? Let’s find out.
1. The Hardcore Rock & Metal Fan
Playlist sounds like: AC/DC, Metallica, Rage Against the Machine, Slipknot
What it says about you: You’re here to train, not chat. You love intensity, and if there’s no adrenaline rush, what’s the point? You probably go hard from the start, and your idea of a “rest day” is doing some light deadlifts.
Performance boost: Studies show that heavy music actually lowers perceived exertion, meaning you can train harder without feeling as exhausted. The fast tempo also fires up aggression—perfect for smashing personal bests in strength training.
Try this for an extra boost: Save the heaviest tracks for when you’re about to attempt a big lift or final sprint. Let the music work its magic.
2. The Hip-Hop Beast Mode Trainer
Playlist sounds like: Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Wu-Tang Clan
What it says about you: You thrive on confidence and energy. You know the right beat can turn you from “meh” to “absolute machine” in seconds. Your workouts are all about power, rhythm, and flow, and you probably talk to yourself mid-session.
Performance boost: Hip-hop’s strong beats and motivational lyrics increase focus and confidence, which is why so many top athletes swear by it. The steady rhythm also helps with pacing—ideal for bodyweight exercises, boxing drills, or sprints.
Try this for an extra boost: Time your hardest sets with your favourite drop or chorus. That extra hype can push you through fatigue.
3. The EDM & Dance Cardio King/Queen
Playlist sounds like: Calvin Harris, Tiësto, David Guetta, The Chainsmokers
What it says about you: You’re all about high energy and non-stop movement. Your workouts are fast-paced, and you thrive on momentum. You don’t stop when you’re tired - you stop when the playlist ends (or your legs give out).
Performance boost: Fast beats (120-140 BPM) are proven to increase endurance and help you keep up a steady pace, making them ideal for cardio-based workouts like running, HIIT, and circuits.
Try this for an extra boost: Match your movements to the beat—running, jumping, or even lifting to the rhythm can improve coordination and efficiency.
4. The “Old-School Bangers Only” Athlete
Playlist sounds like: Queen, Bon Jovi, Michael Jackson, The Bee Gees
What it says about you: You appreciate a good throwback and don’t need screaming guitars or electronic drops to feel the hype. You know music should be fun, and that’s exactly how you approach your workouts.
Performance boost: Nostalgia has been linked to higher motivation and lower stress levels - meaning these feel-good tunes can help you push harder while actually enjoying it.
Try this for an extra boost: Use the upbeat tracks to keep energy high and the slower classics for warm-ups and cool-downs.
5. The Pop Powerhouse
Playlist sounds like: Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Lizzo
What it says about you: You like to keep things light, fun, and high-energy. You train hard, but you’re also here for the vibes. There’s a good chance you sing along mid-workout (and we respect that).
Performance boost: Pop music tends to have catchy melodies and uplifting lyrics, which boost your mood and keep your workouts from feeling like a chore.
Try this for an extra boost: Throw in some high-energy remixes - familiar lyrics plus an amped-up beat will keep your motivation sky-high.
6. The “I Listen to Podcasts While Training” Person
Playlist sounds like: Joe Rogan, The Huberman Lab, true crime podcasts, TED Talks
What it says about you: You love multitasking and self-improvement. Training isn’t just about fitness - it’s about levelling up every part of your life. You’re probably the person in the group chat always dropping “Did you know…” facts.
Performance boost: While podcasts don’t offer the same adrenaline rush as music, they can be great for steady-state cardio or low-intensity workouts where you need to stay engaged without over-hyping yourself.
Try this for an extra boost: Switch to music for intense efforts - science shows high-tempo beats are better for peak performance than spoken word.
So, How Can You Use Music to Boost Your Workouts?
No matter what you listen to, music has a direct impact on performance. Here’s how to use it to your advantage:
Match the tempo to the workout:
Strength training: 60-90 BPM (rock, hip-hop)
HIIT & sprints: 140+ BPM (EDM, rock, pop remixes)
Steady-state cardio: 120-140 BPM (dance, hip-hop, pop)
Cool-down & stretching: <100 BPM (R&B, chill pop, classic rock)
Save the best tracks for when you need them most.
Your go-to hype song should hit right before your toughest set, last sprint, or big lift.
Create multiple playlists.
One for lifting, one for running, one for chill days. That way, you always have the right soundtrack for the job.
Use music to control your pace.
If you struggle with consistency, matching your reps or strides to the beat can improve rhythm and efficiency.
Your Playlist = Your Superpower
Music isn’t just background noise - it’s a tool. Pick the right tracks, and you can push harder, run further, and lift heavier without even realising it.
So, what’s on your workout playlist? If it’s not making you move, it’s time for an upgrade.
