In the effort to avoid the much-dreaded college weight gain, start the year right by hitting the gym. Many studies have shown that listening to music during exercise can help improve the workout. According to Costas Karageorghis, deputy head of sport psychology research at Brunel University, the best music for a workout has a fast paced tempo between 120 and 140 beats per minute. This BPM is commonly found in many dance and rock songs. So here are the top hard rock songs to help you get the most out of your workout.
™Trenches∫ by Pop Evil
This song was No. 1 on Billboard’s U.S. Rock Chart because it sounds as though it is the background anthem to a climatic battle in an action movie. “Trenches” has a fast paced tempo that is perfect for a long workout. Plus, the lyrics are about fighting for what you want in life and the day to day struggle to survive, which touches on the facts of life.
™The Pride∫ by Five Finger Death Punch
A rock song that oddly mixes the listing of modern day news stories, like was done famously in Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” with the traditional rock lyrics of finding strength to fight for your American Dream. The odd mixture results in a song that is the perfect blend of cynical social commentary and a pulse pounding melody.
™You’re Going Down∫ by Sick Puppies
Pure and simple, this is a fight song (if the title didn’t give that away). Yet, a fight song that manages to get your blood pumping as the Australian vocalist sings about knocking someone out.
™Indestructible∫ by Disturbed
A song about an indestructible mythical warrior that takes no prisoners can serve as inspiration to finish that last set of crunches.
™Blow Me Away∫ by Breaking Benjamin feat. Valora
Ironically enough, this remixed song caused the band to go on hiatus and into court over creative differences. The original song was featured in “Halo 2” and the remixed version that features Sydnee Duran of Valora adds to the song by making the song a soulful duet instead of just a solo rock song.
Aleya Ericson can be reached at [email protected].