When going out for a run, it is typical to pop in a pair of AirPods or grab one’s favorite headphones and put on a playlist. The ultimate question tends to be, is the music motivating, or is it only a distraction?
Research suggests that music can play a measurable role in exercise performance, particularly during endurance activities like running. According to sports psychology research, music can help distract athletes from feelings of fatigue, improve mood, and regulate pacing by syncing movement to a steady beat. This process, sometimes called “rhythmic entrainment,” allows runners to unconsciously match their stride to the tempo of a song, which can make maintaining speed feel more natural and less mentally demanding.
Those who believe the music is helpful
People of all ages use music to change and influence their mood and performance.
“Sometimes, depending on the beat of the song, it can boost up my speed, like when it’s hype,” senior Thang Thang said.
Senior Tony Quintalla has a specific memory of running from his previous house in Bartlett to Bartlett High School for a football game.
“It felt like I was in a movie; it helped me run faster. The music made me stop thinking about if I ran out of stamina,” Quintalla said.
Specifically, he was listening to Rinestone Eyes by Gorillaz.
“Depending on the music it motivates me or gives me adrenaline. Sometimes its easier to pace yourself with a beat,” senior Ceci Ayala said.
This idea aligns with research suggesting that runners often use tempo to help regulate their pace, especially during longer runs when maintaining consistency becomes more difficult.
With certain songs having an apparent beat, it can help runners make sure there is a foot on the ground on every beat. A faster tempo can encourage quicker strides, though individual pacing still varies by runner.
“I love running with music because it can help with the adrenaline rush I get and help me run faster! I also really enjoy listening to music because it distracts me from the pain I endure while running,” senior Trisha Marsalek said.
Marsalek’s experience highlights the mental role music can play in pushing athletes through physical discomfort.
“I don’t usually listen to music while running, but every once in a while I do. Music definitely motivates me. Whether it is the beat of a song or the lyrics, it makes it easier to motivate myself and perform at my best every day,” junior Andre Dzwiniel said.
Although Dzwiniel is not a typical music listener, he still reaps the benefits.
Others believe music should not be needed as a motivator
“I’m more the background noise. I don’t think music should be an ultimate motivator. I think the motivation should come from inside, and those who say that ‘I need this kind of music to work out to’ or ‘I need this kind of music to run to, I think they’re mentally weak and they’re not intrinsically motivated,” physical education teacher TJ Nall said.
According to Nall, he listens to a wide range of music while running, but he only listens to music as background noise, and believes that is all it should be.
Revision
Jan. 20, 2026
This article was updated after publication to clarify the sourcing of research related to music and exercise. The revised language more accurately reflects how sports psychology research discusses attention and bodily awareness during physical activity.