10 Workout Songs Guaranteed to Help You Keep That Resolution

If you’re one of the millions of New Years’ resolvers who vowed to get fit this year, chances are you’re looking for the perfect soundtrack to help you push through the wall or run away from the Blerch.  And if you’re like us, you’re tired of the incessant Top 40 that the gym insists on blasting while you’re trying to get into the zone.  A great workout mix needs variety as well as the driving BPM to help get you up and get you psyched.

Whether you need to sweat it out on the treadmill or just fit in one more rep, Writtalin’s got you covered.  Here’s our list of the best jams to whip you into shape…

#1: Japandroids – “The Nights of Wine and Roses”

In the words of Barney Stinson, a great “get psyched mix” is all rise, and that’s exactly what this vicious track from Canadian punks Japandroids is.  Perfect for shaking off the rust and getting into a groove, this song will have you going from couch to 5k in no time flat.

#2: Martin Solveig – “The Night Out (Madeon Remix)”

He may be better known for his collaboration with Dragonette, but not until he teamed up with Madeon did this French DJ have a song tailor-made for the Stairmaster.  Loud, persistent and backed by a prominent beat, it is ideal for keeping your pace on a long distance run.  It errs a bit on the short side though, so you may want to put it on a loop.

#3: Andrew W.K. – “Party Hard”

There is no one on Earth more pumped up than the lord of party metal himself, Andrew WK.  His calling card, “Party Hard,” is 100ccs of adrenaline administered straight to your ears.  Listening to it is like doing anabolic steroids without the acne or impotence, but has just as high a chance of giving you roid rage.  Play at your own risk.

#4: Freestylers – “Cracks (Flux Pavilion Remix)”

Sometimes a good dose of dubstep is all you need to push through that final set of curls and Flux Pavilion’s remix of this breakbeat tune is a great choice on that front.  It’s just heavy and aggressive enough to pump some juice back into your system on the homestretch.  When the turbocharged drop hits, you’ll easily blast through the last few reps before your arms give out.

#5: AWOLNATION – “THISKIDSNOTALRIGHT”

This lesser-known track by “Sail” hit-makers AWOLNATION feels like a 100-second kick in the teeth.  Beginning with an embittered “F*CK!” it never backs down during its brief running time, fueled by heavy fuzz and Aaron Bruno’s signature howl.  Ideal for contact sports and weight training, its punchy dynamics and insistent beat will have you hammering through your routine like a Spartan warrior in a mech suit.

#6: Wu Tang Clan – “Protect Ya Neck”

Take a trip back to 1993 with the fierce debut from RZA, GZA and the whole Clan.  Simple and dynamic in a way that only old school hip-hop can be, “Protect Ya Neck” is propelled by the aggressive flow of the entire gang (Raekwon, Method Man, etc.).  It’s like having a team of coaches motivating you toward the finish.  And the song’s title isn’t bad advice either.  Be sure not to strain on those shoulder presses.

#7: Billy Idol – “Rebel Yell”

Every good workout mix needs a splash of 80s excess and who better to provide it than the inaugural glam punk himself.  Rife with overdriven guitars and bubbly synthesizers, “Rebel Yell” practical demands that you push yourself past the limit.   With its “more, more, more” insistence, you’ll find yourself smashing records and breaking gym equipment.  That’s a Writtalin guarantee.

#8: American Authors – “Best Day of My Life”

We at Writtalin think this song owes its popularity to its overwhelming positivity.  Its thunderous beat, blissful banjo riff guaranteed to cure your Imagine Dragons hangover and unshakably joyous lyrics are sure to make your workout the best of your life every time.  Queue this one up when you feel like throwing in the towel and you’ll finish in Olympian style.

#9: Metallica – “Fuel”

Forget Gatorade, the only fuel you need to replenish your electrolytes is a big gulp of Metallica.  Admittedly, their entire discography is one big workout mix, but “Fuel” represents the travel-size version, a four-and-a-half-minute dose of pure, uncut heavy metal adrenaline.  Play this song right before a power set or a race and watch the competition crumble before your eyes.

#10: Dead Sara – “Weatherman”

Need to give it 110% at the end of a tough workout?  Then queue up this heavy rock number and “go for the kill.”  Powered by lead singer Emily Armstrong’s blistering vocals and guitarist Siouxsie Medley’s fiery riff, this rocker will launch you past your best and have you talking all kinds of smack.

Got your own favs to add to the list?  Let us know in the comments what you have on your workout mix!

Tags : Aaron Bruno, American Authors, Andrew WK, Awolnation, Barney Stinson, Billy Idol, DeadSara, featured, Flux Pavilion, GZA, Health, Japandroids, lifestyle, Martin Solveig, music, Music Musings, Party Hard, Playlist, Workout, Workout Music, Wu Tang Clan