The standard gym playlist likely has a bunch of upbeat songs and anthems that push any gym-goer along to the finish line. But we've all gotten to the point where we're just sick of those workout playlists [1]. If you're finding yourself hopelessly in this place, I have wonderful news: there's more to listen to while you get your fitness on. Sure, those electric tunes are tried and true methods of motivation, but what we're really looking for is a simple distraction. Curious about the other ear-bud buddies that might take your mind off the task at hand? Allow us to offer a few suggestions.
Classical Music
If you're tired of all those pop bangers and remixes, might I suggest something a bit more mellow? There's something meditative about listening to the greatest compositions in music history while you run on the treadmill or pump iron.
Film Scores
Further, sometimes I like to sprinkle in an intense motion picture score to really get me jazzed. How can you not pull our your best with Harry Potter [2], Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, or Indiana Jones blaring in your ear?
Story-Driven Podcasts
Nothing will make your workout seem further away than a gripping story from a prominent podcast. Some of my current or more recent favourites are Dirty John [3], S Town [4], and Welcome to Night Vale [5]. There are tons and tons!
Informative Podcasts
If you can't focus on a story while you crunch, consider a different kind of podcast! The landscape is riddled with all kinds of goodies: political shows, comedy shows, explorations of film and TV, the works. I love The Rachel Maddow Show, [6]Throwing Shade [7], Keep It [8], RuPaul's What's the Tee?, and [9]Dear Sugars [10].
Audiobooks
Are you one of the those people who's like, "Ugh, I never have time to read"? Well, maybe your gym time can also be your reading time. Sometimes it's nice to get your bookworm on while you work out. It's like you're working on the inside and the outside at the same time. If you need some guidance, we have a bunch of new books coming out [11], modern murder thrillers [12], and books turning into movies [13], just for you!
Stand-Up Comedy
If all else fails, it might be fun to listen to some comedy. Nothing will distract you from all that sweating like a good laugh. Then again, try not to make sure you're going for your squat PR during a particularly funny joke. It may be disastrous. Right now, I'm loving Ali Wong, Maria Bamford, John Mulaney, and Hannah Gadsby.
Good Ol' Music
Of course, you can always go back to what you know: club bangers and remixes. If you're looking to freshen up your playlist, we have Summer jams [14], sexy songs [15], and more 2018 goodness [16] to help you along.