The ultimate running playlist

Any runner knows how difficult it can be when you hit that dreaded wall, but they’ll also tell you what an immense motivator music can be to break through it. A great, uplifting tune starting just as you begin to lag can be the turning point of any run and get you racing on – that’s why you need the ultimate running playlist.

One of the leading experts on the psychology of exercise music, Costas Karageorghis of Brunel University in London, said that music can be thought of as ‘a type of mood enhancing drug.’

Research into the effects of music on exercise performance dates back to as early as 1911 when Leonard Ayres found that cyclists pedalled faster when a band was playing than when it was silent.

So we’ve compiled a list of fantastic songs – old and new – to take your mind off those aching legs and focus on the road ahead of you.

Lose yourself – Eminem

Lose Yourself lets you do exactly what it says. Put this at the start of your playlist and you’ll soon be lost in your run.

Roar – Katy Perry

Katy Perry just exudes fun, energy and that carefree vibe. This song in particular will help lift your mood and make you feel strong racing up those hills.

45:33 – LCD Soundsystem

This is actually an album-length composition of 45:43 minutes and the varying intensity of the track makes it great for interval training. Give it a try!

Happy – Pharrell Williams

Try putting this towards the end of your playlist. Hearing it pop up when you’re nearing the end of your 5k run will help get that adrenaline pumping and see you through the final minutes.

Simply the best – Tina Turner

This song is basically the personal trainer by your side, spurring you on to finish that 10k. You can do it, you’re simply the best, after all.

Keep your head up – Ben Howard

Something about this just makes it work perfectly with outdoor runs. Being at one with nature and Ben’s captivating voice will keep you going.

Burn – Ellie Goulding

Ellie is a fantastic runner herself, so it only makes sense that her music would be perfect for running to as well. Try this while going all out in sprints.

Shake it off – Taylor Swift

It’s hard not to get in a great mood listening to this song by the princess of pop and is great for jogging to. Good vibes all round!

I love it – Icona Pop

The beats in this track just make you believe that you can do that sprint and you will love it.

Eye of the tiger – Survivor

Let’s be honest, this is the ultimate workout song. Made famous by Rocky III, it’ll raise your spirits and get you to the top of that hill in no time.