Researchers have made it apparent that there is at least some benefit in exercising with certain types of music. The mood of the research participants was just the start of a chain of positive impacts revealed. The best thing to do then, the next time the iPod goes to the gym with you, is play familiar music with fast-paced rhythms that you enjoy, and then start your workout to reap the benefits.
Distraction
Dr. Len Kravitz, professor and researcher, has conducted research that shows possible increases in motivation to continue exercise past levels of perceived fatigue while listening to music during exercise. Music distracts the participant from listening to body cues indicating fatigue, and participants therefore persist with activity longer than they would have without music. Those who are able to push far beyond their normal pain threshold quickly develop better endurance and thus become better performers.
Motivation
Further research has examined the effect of the music's tempo on psychological responses and motivation of participants. Specifically, strength and endurance were measured with regard to response to the type of music--white noise, slow and relaxing music, or upbeat and familiar music. The results suggested that the upbeat familiar music had a measurable impact, showing greater strength and endurance due to psychological arousal. The researchers concluded that faster-tempo music enjoyed by participants correlated with motivation and higher intensity of effort to perform exercises. All concluded that motivation during exercise is positively impacted by listening to music.
Synchronisation
Another significant researcher of the psychological links between exercise and music is Costas Karageorghis of Britain's Brunel University. His studies have shown that the brain uses musical tempo as a cue to exercise, particularly in repetitive activities such as cycling or running. This sets a pace for exercising and allows for greater endurance and better performance.
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