The Workout Playlist That Will Make You Faster and Stronger
Find out how listening to different types of music can make you perform better during your workout—and during the rest of your day, as well.
By Corrie Pikul
Photo: Peopleimages/iStock/360/Getty Images
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What to Listen to When You Need to Focus
If your goal is to tune in to your body—when practicing a challenging yoga pose or while meditating—turn on something that
calms a pounding heart as well as a racing brain. Studies have shown that slow-tempo music, with between 60 and 70 beats per minute (just below resting heart rate),
can bring down blood pressure and heart rate. You might want to stick with instrumental pieces, as Karageorghis has found that lyrics can be challenging to process mentally, and the messages expressed by the lyrics can be motivating or physically arousing. (Great for when you're trying to get your mind off your aching feet; not so great when you're trying to get in touch with your inner self.)
What to play: "
Albatross" by Fleetwood Mac (66 bpm); "
Evenstar" by London Philharmonic Orchestra (50 bpm); "
Terrapin" by Bonobo (76 bpm).
Published 10/14/2014
