Four benefits of listening to music while walking
Listen
to music when you walk to put some pep in your step.
Need some extra motivation to get through your daily walk? Just press play on your favourite songs.
There are many benefits to listening to music. It can make you happier and help you sleep better. Music is also good for people who enjoy walking and running. Science has shown that it can even help you improve your exercise performance.
Here are four reasons why music and walking go together like strawberries and cream.
It helps motivate you
The thought of getting up at 5 in the morning to go for a walk can be daunting. If you put together a good playlist though, you can leave the rest to the music once you pull yourself out of bed. In addition, working up a sweat takes a lot of effort, and it’s easy to give up. To keep you going for that extra kilometre or two, nothing will help motivate you more than a good tune. Choose songs with a strong beat and inspiring lyrics to help you keep up your pace.
It’s a fun way to keep track of your walk
Instead of tracking your distance with an app or constantly having to check your watch, simply use your favourite songs. If, for example, you want to walk for 30 minutes, then make a 30‑minute playlist. This way, instead of looking at numbers, you can focus on the music, and before you know it, your walk will be over.
It can help you pace yourself
To increase and decrease your intensity at different points during your walk, you can alternate between slow music and fast music regulate your pace. Play fast songs when you need to do a brisk walk, and switch to slower music when you’re cooling down for a minute or two.
It is backed by studies
Studies show that music can help you become more determined and more focused on any given task. According to an article on Charles Sturt University’s website, music causes the brain to release dopamine, a brain chemical that assists in regulating motivation and goal-oriented behaviour. Here are some of the top songs the writer lists for motivation:
'The Final Countdown' – Europe
'It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n Roll)' – AC/DC
'You Win Again' – Bee Gees
'Don’t Stop Me Now' – Queen
'Ain’t No Mountain High Enough' – Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
A word of caution: Don’t turn up the volume too high – you still need to be aware of your surroundings!