High-tempo music may make exercise easier and more beneficial:
A new study in Frontiers in Psychology is the first to show that listening to music at a higher tempo reduces the perceived effort involved in exercise and increases its benefits. These effects were greater for endurance exercises, such as walking, than for high-intensity exercises, such as weightlifting. The researchers hope that the findings could help people to increase and improve their exercise habits.
Many people listen to music while exercising and previous studies have documented some of the benefits. For instance, music can distract from fatigue and discomfort and increase participation in exercise. However, “how” we experience music is highly subjective, with cultural factors and personal preferences influencing its effects on individuals. Music is multifaceted with various aspects such as rhythm, lyrics and melody contributing to the experience.
You know, I’ve been known to tell people that I don’t like exercise, but I do like loud music and that I don’t come to the gym to work out, I come to the gym to listen to the music.
I dispute that the music does not affect lifting weights; I do believe it distracts me from the voice in my head that says I cannot lift that.
Speaking of metal, here’s some piping hot new Semblant.
I just saw that on YouTube, and it’s already on my gym playlist. So I will have to go to the gym tomorrow so I can listen to it.
(Link via Neatorama.)
I’m not surprised by the results, but I am surprised no one made the link before now. “Rebel Yell” and “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock and Roll) will help me power through any late-workout lethargy. James Taylor will not.
You know, I think I’ve seen other Internet reporting highlighting similar studies. So it might only be confirming other studies or expanding on them.