Anyone who frequents the gym knows the importance of music during a workout. Whether it’s steady techo-beats during aerobics or whatever’s on the ol’ iPod to drown out the 80s pop blaring at LIFETIME, the type of music one listens to during a workout can have affects on the quality of the routine.

From the introduction of aerobic dance in the early 70s, it’s been generally thought that setting music to exercise provides some important beneficial effect to the whole exercise experience. Many health and fitness instructors regard the addition of music to exercise as a necessary aid. However, it may come as a surprise to many people that scientific evidence has provided conflicting results when it comes to the effects of music on exercise performance.

A popular opinion among body builders is that listening to heavy and driving music, such as metal, motivates and increases adrenaline in a workout, as well as increases grip strength. Others have argued that this has a negative impact on muscle growth.

Unsurprisingly, just as our brains benefit from listening to the complexities of classical music, so can the rest of our muscles. Classical music however doesn’t mean slow or boring music. Rather, fast-paced, complex pieces are better fits.

Sedative, easy-listening music may actually decrease one’s muscular fitness potential training ability. Stimulating music, such as classical or symphonic pieces, increases muscle tension while sedative music decreases muscle tension. Falling asleep during your exercise routine is kind of self-defeating.

Others argue that silence is actually the best thing to listen to for the sake of muscle growth. While music can certainly increase the enjoyment of the workout and make it more bearable, silence can allow one to really focus their will on finishing their workout. While music can be a motivating and steady beat, it can also act as a distraction that allows you to tune-out of your workout entirely and just sets your body on automatic. Being more focused and mentally involved in your workout can positively affect your results.

Regardless of all of these conflicting opinions, it’s important to listen to the music, or lack thereof, that works for you. If rap or heavy metal makes your workout more fast-paced and enjoyable, have at it. If silence improves your results, go for it. If you prefer some Bach or Beethoven in your playlist, there’s nothing wrong with that. Create your own musical mix instead of being subject to whatever is blaring over the gym speakers, because it’s your workout, and it should be as awesome as you can make it.

Music can be used to stimulate the mind and the body. So why not use it during exercise to help distract you from the effort you are exerting. It can also be used to help you get started. Just turn on some intense music and just stand there getting into the rhythm and before you know it you will be pumped up enough to get your body moving to the beat!

Author Bio: Andy Carter is a contributor/writer for Simple-Flat-Stomach-Exercises.com. For more great information like this, learn about How to Tone Your Stomach.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
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