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- Jan 26, 2022
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Most people know the CPR example where chest compressions are often taught to the rhythm of “Stayin’ Alive”. Apparently runners sometimes do something similar with music and running cadence.
A lot of running songs are grouped by BPM (beats per minute), and some runners try matching their steps to the beat to help keep a steady pace during runs. Slower jogs usually feel more comfortable with lower BPM songs, while faster runs naturally match tracks with quicker rhythms.
Some people even build running playlists around cadence instead of simply choosing random workout music. It’s interesting because many runners don’t even realise they’re doing it at first. Certain songs just somehow make pacing feel smoother and more natural.
A few songs seem to appear constantly in UK running playlists depending on pace:
Music probably affects running pace more than most people realise. At the same time, others avoid fast music completely because it makes them start too quickly and burn out earlier than expected.
Do you use music to control your running pace, or do you just listen to whatever feels good at the time?
A lot of running songs are grouped by BPM (beats per minute), and some runners try matching their steps to the beat to help keep a steady pace during runs. Slower jogs usually feel more comfortable with lower BPM songs, while faster runs naturally match tracks with quicker rhythms.
Some people even build running playlists around cadence instead of simply choosing random workout music. It’s interesting because many runners don’t even realise they’re doing it at first. Certain songs just somehow make pacing feel smoother and more natural.
A few songs seem to appear constantly in UK running playlists depending on pace:
- "Stayin’ Alive” – Bee Gees
Often mentioned because of CPR rhythm, but some people genuinely use it for steady easier jogging pace.
- “Mr Brightside” – The Killers
Feels surprisingly good for medium pace runs and is probably one of the most recognisable songs on running playlists.
- “Titanium” – David Guetta & Sia
Common for faster efforts or when people want a bit more energy during runs.
- “Can’t Hold Us” – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
Seems popular for tempo runs or pushing pace slightly harder.
- “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd
Quite a lot of runners mention this one because the rhythm naturally fits steady running cadence.
Music probably affects running pace more than most people realise. At the same time, others avoid fast music completely because it makes them start too quickly and burn out earlier than expected.
Do you use music to control your running pace, or do you just listen to whatever feels good at the time?
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