Patients often tell me that they dread the idea of exercise, even if its just walking.  Admittedly, I cannot relate as I thoroughly enjoy the feeling I get during and right after so much that I crave it.  It hasn’t always been that way for me though.  Exercise used to feel like an interruption and an inconvenience. Now it is necessary to maintain my sanity. Don’t worry, if you haven’t quite reached nirvana with exercise, I have a hack for you. Music.  Music isn't just a form of entertainment—its a helpful motivation and distraction during physical activities like walking, running, or strength training. Here are some key benefits of plugging into your favorite tunes during exercise.

1. Boosts Motivation

Music has the power to motivate. Upbeat, fast-paced songs can provide the extra push needed to start moving and sustain the effort throughout your workout. The rhythm can encourage you to keep pace, especially when fatigue sets in. Or one of your favorite throwback hits and put you into just the right sentimental space to take the first step out the door. 

2. Enhances Performance

Studies suggest that music not only boosts motivation but also enhances physical performance. Listening to music can lead to a phenomenon known as rhythmic entrainment, where the body's movements synchronize with the beat of the music, leading to more efficient energy expenditure. This synchronization can help runners maintain a steady pace, making their movement more efficient. The same thing can be true for walkers!

3. Reduces Perceived Effort

One of the most exciting benefits of music is its ability to make exercise feel less strenuous. The distraction it offers can help divert your mind from sensations of fatigue. This psychological effect can be particularly useful when you dread exercise.

4. Improves Mood

Music, like exercise, is also a powerful mood enhancer. Listening to your favorite tracks while exercising can increase the release of feel-good hormones like endorphins and dopamine. This boost in mood is crucial not just for enjoying the exercise session but also for establishing a positive association with workouts, encouraging consistent engagement over time.

5. Offers a Therapeutic Escape

For many, like me, exercise is a way to 'zone out' from the daily stresses and strains. Adding music to this mix can create a therapeutic escape. The right playlist (something that reminds you of your youth, for instance) can transport you into a different headspace, where you can process thoughts or simply enjoy a moment of mindfulness, enhancing the mental health benefits of exercise. 

6. Increases Stamina and Endurance

Listening to music can extend the duration of exercise by making it more enjoyable. This is particularly useful for endurance activities like long runs, where music can help maintain a positive mindset and distract from fatigue.  It is also helpful if you are the type of person who thinks constantly about being done. 

Whether you're a walker, a runner, or a triathlete, incorporating music into your exercise routine can significantly enhance the mental and physical experience. So the next time you lace up your sneakers, don't forget your headphones—it could be a simple trick to take your mind off the tasks, allowing you to form some positive associations.  Before you know it, you may even start to enjoy exercising.