An analysis reveals that optimal tempo, emotional uplift and rhythmic consistency are the key components of effective fitness music
Most people have a go-to workout playlist to help keep motivation and energy high, especially when things get tough. But it turns out that there’s a science to the best music for workout performance.
A new analysis from Chordify, an AI-powered online music learning platform, reveals that the pop songs most commonly associated with longer, more consistent workouts include three key components: optimal tempo (BPM, or beats per minute), emotional uplift and rhythmic consistency.
The platform looked at some of the most-played pop songs of all-time to understand why certain tracks have staying power across gym floors, running playlists and fitness classes long after their release.
Here were the top ten songs Chordify identified as consistently supporting longer workout duration, across cardio, running and gym training:
- “Blinding Lights,” The Weeknd – 171 BPM
- “Don’t Start Now,” Dua Lipa – 124 BPM
- “Uptown Funk,” Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars – 164 BPM
- “Hung Up,” Madonna – 126 BPM
- “Levitating,” Dua Lipa – 103 BPM
- “Mr. Brightside,” The Killers – 148 BPM
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” Justin Timberlake – 113 BPM
- “Crazy in Love,” Beyonce – 99 BPM
- “Sorry,” Justin Bieber – 100 BPM
- “Run the World (Girls),” Beyonce – 127 BPM
Why These Songs Provide a Major Workout Boost
Chordify noted that songs between 120 and 170 BPM are most effective for maintaining movement without premature fatigue. Slower tempos can lead to a slower pace, while tracks that are too fast can cause someone to overdo it and burn out.
Tone matters, too, according to science. Songs that feel more upbeat can help reduce perceived exertion, meaning people are less likely to tap out of a workout or set early, even when effort stays the same. This effect has been researched in sports psychology, helping reveal why upbeat pop consistently outperforms other genres for workouts.
Rhythm is the third key component of an ideal workout song, Chordify pointed out, as a steadier beat without frequent tempo changes or long instrumental drops helps maintain consistency and keep up a longer workout.
Even as a myriad of new music has topped charts since many of these songs were released, these tracks remain staples because of their dependable formulas, supporting repetition, rhythm and flow.
“Workout music isn’t about hype,” Chordify explained. “It’s about rhythm you can trust. When the body knows what’s coming next, it keeps going.”
