The future of music

75 Best Workout Songs to Motivate You – Let’s Go!

December 24, 2023
best workout songs

I’ve put together an energizing playlist of the best workout songs to motivate you, designed to boost your energy and keep you moving.

This selection is your perfect companion for any fitness routine, helping you stay focused and inspired through every rep and run.

Table of Contents

Top workout songs to motivate you

  • “212” by Azealia Banks
  • “Till I Collapse” by Eminem
  • “Stronger” by Kanye West
  • “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa
  • “Chop Suey!” by System Of A Down
  • “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish
  • “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa
  • “Bubblegum Bitch” by MARINA
  • “Zitti e Buoni” by Måneskin
  • “Partition” by Beyonce

1. “212” by Azealia Banks

This is arguably one of the best songs to work out to.

It’s fast-paced, motivating, and kind of badass.

So, if you’re looking for a tune for your cardio exercises, look no further – “212” is your jam.

2. “Till I Collapse” by Eminem

According to Time magazine, the best workout song ever made is Eminem’s “Till I Collapse” – and we can see why.

Eminem’s 2002 hit is also a pep talk, and it will undoubtedly get you through your daily exercise. 

3. “Stronger” by Kanye West

When it comes to the best workout music, Kanye West’s “Stronger” is a classic.

Kanye used a voice sample from Daft Punk’s “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger”, so when you need a change of pace, you can listen to the original too.

4. “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa 

One of the songs that’s often associated with workout songs is “Push It” by Salt-N-Pepa.

Released in 1986, the song is one of the highlights of danceable 80s music – and it seems like it never gets old. 

5. “Chop Suey!” by System Of A Down 

If you prefer rock workout songs, this one’s for you.

“Chop Suey!” is all about energetic atmosphere, versatile melodies, and motivating vibes. 

In fact, this song could easily get you through the finish line of a marathon.

6. “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish 

“Bad Guy” became Billie’s signature song, and you should definitely include it in your ultimate workout playlist. 

The song is fast-paced and captivating.

And the guy in the video is doing push-ups. Upgraded push-ups, to be precise.

7. “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa 

Without a doubt, Dua Lipa is a pop princess of the 2020s.

And her smash hit “Don’t Start Now” is a perfect exercise song. 

The song is taken from Dua Lipa’s second studio album “Future Nostalgia” released in 2020. 

8. “Bubblegum Bitch” by MARINA 

Marina is known for making catchy pop songs with meaningful messages.

Regardless of the story behind “Bubblegum Bitch”, the song will undoubtedly motivate you to start exercising (or dancing) right away. 

9. “Zitti e Buoni” by Måneskin

Måneskin’s breakout hit is an ideal song to work out to.

It’s fast-paced, energetic, and badass. 

Plus, the song talks about doing your own thing despite what people are saying about you.

10. “Partition” by Beyonce

Beyonce knows how to write a good workout song. 

“Partition” is taken from her self-titled studio album released in 2013.

And if the song doesn’t inspire you to hit the gym, the music video probably will.

11. “Don’t Stop The Music” by Rihanna 

Numerous Rihanna’s songs could be on this list of the best workout songs.

But there is something about the good old “Don’t Stop The Music” that will get you in the right mood.

12. “Motivation” by Normani  

Let Normani be your motivation.

Her 2019 hit will certainly help you get through the exercise, even if it’s a 2-minute plank.

By the way, “Motivation” was rated as one of the best workout songs by Self, Men’s Health, and Time magazine.

13. “One More Time” by Daft Punk 

Daft Punk’s “One More Time” is an iconic workout song and an ultimate party hit that will undoubtedly get you pumped-up.

It was released in 2000, but it still sounds fresh. 

14. “I Like It” by Cardi B, Bad Bunny & J Balvin 

Cardi B’s “I Like It” is a hip-hop and Latin mashup that you need.

Therefore, it’s a great song for a zumba class or even home cardio exercises. 

After all, she sings: Yeah they call me Cardi B, I run this sh*t like cardio…

15. “Body Movin’ (Fatboy Slim Remix)” by The Beastie Boys

The Beastie Boys with a Fatboy Slim twist? Oh, yes.

If you don’t have this track on your pumped-up workout playlist, we don’t know what you’re waiting for. 

16. “Dancing On My Own” by Robyn

The type of exercise you should do with Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own” is jumping around in your living room.

And sometimes that’s the best kind of exercise.

17. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii 

“Wake Me Up” was one of Avicii’s signature songs.

And he made a perfect mix: Aloe Blacc’s soulful vocals, country sounds, and uplifting melodies.

It’s all you need from motivating workout music.

18. “Good As Hell” by Lizzo 

Woo child, tired of the bullsh*t, Go on dust your shoulders off, keep it moving…

What is a good workout playlist without Lizzo?

And although she has more pumped-up songs than this one, there’s something about “Good As Hell” that will make you feel very confident and motivated.

19. “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man 

Portugal. The Man released “Feel It Still” in 2017, and it soon became a chart-topping hit.

This fast-paced, catchy indie tune is also an ideal song for working out – it will help you to keep up the pace.

20. “Side To Side” by Ariana Grande & Nicki Minaj 

“Side To Side” is a smashing pop hit released in 2016.

It’s a good song to work out to, especially if you’re looking for something with a slower rhythm.

And the music video is quite motivating too. 

21. “Believer” by Imagine Dragons

The moment you hear “Believer” by Imagine Dragons on the radio, it’s impossible not to feel inspired and confident, at least for a moment.

It’s a powerful song that will inspire you to keep going no matter how hard things get.

22. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift 

Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” has an important message: ignore the haters and do your own thing.

The song has a great vibe too, and it will undoubtedly motivate you to break a sweat. 

And if you start to feel tired, just shake it off!

23. “Pump Up The Jam” by Technotronic

If you’re wondering what music is best for workout, the answer is simple: whatever keeps your motivation high.

And for some people, it doesn’t get better than workout classics. 

“Pump Up The Jam” is oldie but goldie.

24. “Numb” by Linkin Park 

And maybe you need something more powerful. 

In that case, you can’t go wrong with Linkin Park and “Numb.”

There’s also a version with Jay-Z if you want something even more intense for your workout session. 

25. “Paint It, Black” by The Rolling Stones 

With recognizable Stones vibes and steady rhythm, “Paint It, Black” is a great workout song.

In fact, it’s a perfect song for jogging. 

We encourage you to try it the next time you hit the park. 

26. “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I 

“Dance Monkey” is probably one of the biggest radio hits of the past few years.

It’s catchy and uplifting, and that ‘Dance for me, dance for me, dance for me’ part will certainly get you on your feet.

27. “Lean On” by Major Lazer and MØ

Speaking of radio hits, we can’t skip  “Lean On” by Major Lazer and MØ.

The song has a catchy melody and a great rhythm for working out, especially if you’re fond of home full body workouts. 

28. “Eye Of The Tiger” by Survivor

If you prefer something more typical (and many would agree iconic), look no further than Survivor’s “Eye Of The Tiger.”

Turn the volume up and let Rocky Balboa guide you.

29. “Work B*tch” by Britney Spears 

And if you’re a 90s kid, then you’ll like our next suggestion.

Although Britney also has many older songs that could be great for exercising, this one seems to be one of the gym favorites.

30. “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child 

Destiny’s Child’s 2001 chart-topping hit will remind you that you’re a survivor.

And it’s true; you can do anything you put your mind to, as long as you keep at it. 

31. “VOSSI BOP” by STORMZY

Keep up the good work with this ultimate rap workout song. 

With this 2019 track, Stormzy hit number one in the UK.

And that comes as no surprise; it’s catchy, fun, and well-made.

32. “Hey Ya” by Outkast 

Oh, what a fantastic throwback…

But besides transporting you to some good times, Outkast’s “Hey Ya” is also a great workout song, especially for jogging. 

Or, of course, for dancing around the house.

33. “Level Up” by Ciara 

Step your game up with Ciara’s “Level Up”, a smashing hit released in 2018.

It’s arguably one of the best workout songs to get you ready for more push-ups.

34. “Lose Control” by Missy Elliott 

The song with the similar effect is Missy Elliott’s smash hit “Lose Control.”

It’s like an explosion of energy; exactly what you need to get you pumped-up for the day.

35. “Sicko Mode” by Travis Scott 

If rap and hip hop workout songs keep your motivation high, then add “Sicko Mode” by Travis Scott to your playlist.

It’s gritty and direct, and actually quite interesting and enjoyable. 

But most importantly, it will get you to do that one more push-up.

36. “Move Your Feet” by Junior Seat 

Can’t stop, can’t stop the beat, Won’t stop, won’t stop the beat…

There’s no doubt that Junior Seat will make you move your feet. 

This workout tune is sweet, catchy, and definitely danceable.

37. “Keep Moving” by Jungle

Jungle will also undoubtedly make you move and help you get through that aerobic class.

And their track “Keep Moving” is a true hidden gem among popular workout songs. 

38. “Work From Home” by Fifth Harmony and Ty Dolla $Ign

If you’re working from home and not moving around a lot, maintaining a healthy workout routine is important. 

And this catchy radio hit will certainly get you in the right mood.

39. “Niggas In Paris” by Jay Z and Kanye West 

This song is another major throwback.

But it’s also a good song for working out; it has a strong, steady rhythm and badass vibes.

And you probably know it by heart because you’ve heard it so many times.

40. “Girl Like Me” by Shakira and Black Eyed Peas 

“Girl Like Me” has everything you need from an awesome workout song.

It has a good beat, it’s Black Eyed Peas, and it has Shakira’s dance moves.

41. “Raising Hell” by Kesha and Big Freedia

If you want to expand your pop workout songs playlist, why not add some Kesha to the mix?

And no, we didn’t suggest “Raising Hell” because we associate 3-minute planks with hell.

42. “Times Like These” by Foo Fighters

Nothing will help you get through that fatigue like some good guitar riffs.

And “Times Like These” by Foo Fighters seems to be one of the popular rock workout songs.

43. “Bad Habit” by The Kooks

And our personal suggestion for a good pop/rock workout tune is “Bad Habit” by The Kooks.

There’s something very motivating, catchy, but also seductive about this song. 

44. “Won’t Stand Down” by Muse 

Another suggestion we have is “Won’t Stand Down”, a fresh 2022 track by Muse.

This epic song will certainly get you through your workout successfully.

Actually, any song by Muse will do.

45. “Hideaway” by Kiesza 

Kiesza’s ear-worm “Hideaway” is another song ideal for working out.

It’s energetic but not too intense, and its captivating vocals are certainly a part of its charm.

46. “La Romana” by Bad Bunny and El Alfa 

Puerto Rico’s Bad Bunny is no stranger to radio hits.

But his “La Romana” seems to be more intense than some of his other tracks.

Therefore, it deserves a spot on this list.

47. “War Paint” by Fletcher 

Fletcher’s “War Paint” maybe isn’t a huge hit, but it’s a good song to work out to.

It’s a feel-good tune that will help you keep your head up even when things seem a little rough. 

48. “Little Lion Man” by Mumford & Sons 

We all need a little pick-me-up from time to time.

Whether you feel a bit low or you need motivation for working out, “Little Lion Man” will make things better. 

After all, Mumford & Sons are known for making uplifting songs that can inspire you in so many ways.

49. “Purple Hat” by SOFI TUKKER 

This workout list wouldn’t be complete without Sofi Tukker.

Their songs are captivating, catchy, and interesting – and “Purple Hat” is no different.

50. “…Ready For It?” by Taylor Swift 

With her song “…Ready For It?” Taylor Swift showed she can be pretty badass.

And there is something about this song that will make you feel confident and ready to conquer the world.

Are you ready for it?

51. “Confident” by Demi Lovato

Speaking of confidence, let’s not forget about the powerful tune “Confident” by Demi Lovato.

Because a strong beat, Demi’s energy, and badass vibes is all you need right now.

What’s wrong with being confident?

52. “Wings” by Little Mix 

Spread your wings with Little Mix’s 2012 smash hit.

Besides being uplifting and catchy, this song is quite energetic and fast-paced, so work out at your own risk.

53. “I Don’t Care” by Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber 

“I Don’t Care” has a nice, steady rhythm.

It’s also not too intense, so you can easily go through your workout without feeling like you can’t breathe.

54. “FU” by Miley Cyrus and French Montana 

Sometimes all you need to maintain a workout routine is a little external push.

And “FU” by Miley Cyrus and French Montana might as well be that little extra push.

55. “My Oh My” by Camilla Cabello and DaBaby 

When you hear Camilla Cabbello, catchy Latin-inflicted riffs immediately come to mind.

And “My Oh My” is another catchy beat you can use for your workout session.

56. “Blood, Sweat & Tears” by Ava Max

If you want to achieve great results, you have to be ready for blood, sweat, and tears.

At least good music can make things easier. 

And this tune is a good reminder that hard work eventually pays off.

57. “Jungle” by X Ambassadors and Jamie N Commons

Whether you’re running on a treadmill or doing push-ups, “Jungle” will get you in the right pace.

And sometimes that’s all you need from a workout song.

However, this tune will also keep your motivation high.

58. “Higher” by Bishop Briggs 

Well, “Higher” by Bishop Briggs is a perfect jogging song.

If you watch the music video you’ll see why.

Either way, the song should definitely be a part of your jogging playlist.

59. “Too Close” by Alex Clare 

Alex Clare’s “Too Close” will undoubtedly put you in the workout mood.

It’s taken from the singer’s debut studio album, “The Lateness of the Hour”, released in 2011. 

The song will also make you think about your goals and all the ways you can achieve them.

60. “BOP on Broadway” by DaBaby 

Street vibes, hip hop moves, and DaBaby’s infectious energy – that’s what this song is all about.

If you’re looking for some good hip hop workout music, you’ve found your jam.

61. “Roadrunner” by the Modern Lovers 

Besides being a perfect road trip tune, “Roadrunner” could be a good jogging soundtrack.

Just don’t go jogging in the middle of a highway.

62. “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” by C&C Music Factory

It’s finally time for one of the most iconic workout songs of all time.

If you’re making a gym playlist, you can’t go wrong with “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now).”

It’s a classic.

63. “Uncontrollable Urge” by Devo 

Are you having an uncontrollable urge to work out?

We’ve got you covered.

Put this tune, turn the volume up, and start with your cardio routine.

64. “Another One Bites To Dust” by Queen 

If you need an energy boost, Freddie Mercury will come to the rescue.

“Another One Bites To Dust” turns out to be fantastic workout music.

We can already feel our feet moving.

65. “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd

It seems like The Weeknd can’t release anything but smashing hits.

And although you probably associate  “Blinding Lights” with roaming around Las Vegas, it’s actually a pretty good workout song.

66. “Breezeblocks” by Alt-J

And if you’re an indie music lover, why not add Alt-J to your list?

Some of their songs are very energetic and intense, and they can easily get you through a 1-hour workout.

67. “Disparate Youth” by Santigold

Another great alternative workout song is Santigold’s  “Disparate Youth” released in 2012.

Captivating melodies, a powerful guitar riff, and mesmerizing vocals… 

68. “Need You Now” by Cut Copy 

“Need You Now” is energetic, inspiring, and euphoric.

Although it’s not the first song that comes to mind when you think about exercising, it’s a perfect running song.

69. “The Seed” by The Roots 

This familiar tune could be your new favorite cycling soundtrack.

Or a biking song. Call it what you want. 

Either way, “The Seed” is a perfect blend of a cool, repetitive rhythm, chill vibes, and soulful vocals.

70. “White Noise” by Disclosure 

Whether you like jogging, cycling or weight-lifting, Disclosure can help you keep up with your workout regime.

There are numerous songs by Disclosure that could fit this list, but it doesn’t get better than their signature song “White Noise.”

71. “Temperature” by Sean Paul

And why not mix your workout session with a private throwback party? 

And Sean Paul’s “Temperature” was a true dancehall hit in the 2000s.

72. “Maneater” by Nelly Furtado 

We have another 2000s workout song for you: “Maneater” by Nelly Furtado.

Sometimes iconic party hits make the best workout music.

73. “Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)” by The Jacksons 

This 1978 disco hit will add energy and enthusiasm to your workout.

After all, if the King of Pop tells you to dance, who are you not to obey?

Let’s dance, let’s shout

Shake your body down to the ground.

74. “Sexy Back” by Justin Timberlake

Regular exercise is important for your health. 

But of course, looking good and feeling confident is a nice side effect. 

And Justin Timberlake’s “Sexy Back” can remind you of that now and then.

75. “Go” by The Chemical Brothers 

Before we wrap it up – one of our favorite workout songs.

“Go” will push you to go that extra mile.

Therefore, you should definitely include it in your essential workout playlist.

Best Workout Songs – Final Thoughts 

There you go.

We hope our list reminded you of some workout hits as well as showed you some new motivating music.

But more importantly, we hope it inspired you to start working out!

Similar Playlists:

Best Fighting Songs

Best Hype Songs

Will Fenton

Will, the founder of MIDDER, is a multifaceted individual with a deep passion for music and personal finance. As a self-proclaimed music and personal finance geek, he has a keen eye for futuristic technologies, especially those that empower creators and the public.

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