Music the Running Motivator

What role can music play to motivate running? As a musician, I am very much in tune with tempos and rhythm and how it affects my running cadence.  Most of the music that I listen to falls within 100-130 beats per minute, in the allegro category, which translates to ‘lively’ in Italian.  This liveliness is ideal when I am running a tempo run or when I need a pick-me-up in a race. Music effects the body and brain and listening to it releases dopamine. Running with music, like dancing, lights up the emotional and movement brain centers and can place a person into a flow state, which may lead to euphoria which may lead to faster running and increased confidence. When was the last time you were running and realized that another mile had passed unnoticed? Were you listening to music at the time?

One of my favorite running activities is to run single track downhill in step with a fast song. Studies show that music improves gross motor skills. Books have been written on this. As I skip from rocks, jump over roots and run around tight corners I work in step with the music. Music enhances the experience of being and moving in the natural world, and improves step coordination, rhythm and cadence. One of my favorite trails to run fast downhill is Mount Si near Seattle, Washington. When running with music I am one hundred percent focused until I’m back at the trailhead, fully satisfied with no sprained ankles.

For each race I come armed with a playlist. For much of the race my headphones are off. But I always carry my headphones and playlist to get me through a low in case I need it. I think music is a tool that can be used in addition to a hydration or fueling plan to help improve certain aspects of training and long runs. What do you think?