Soundtracks to Success: The Connection Between Rhythms, Results, & Athletic Performance

Having played team sports practically from the womb, there always seems to be that one teammate who will volunteer to ‘be on aux,’ but can a Swiftie really be trusted with pre-game tunes?

There has got to be a wrong answer on what absolutely not to play before a game, right?

All signs point to… 

Maybe?

The psychological power of music

Research has shown that music has a profound effect on the brain’s ability to perform in tense situations as a regulator of both mood and motivation. For athletes, the right playlist can help set the tone for training and competition, influencing their emotional state and mindset. Studies indicate that fast-pace and high-energy songs tend to increase adrenaline levels, providing the energy and motivation to push through workouts or high pressure situations. 

This is explained through the concept of “entrainment” – the idea that our body is capable of automatically synchronizing bodily rhythms, physical movement, heart rate, respiratory rate, and neural activity, with the beat of music. It turns out that listening to fast-paced music typically raises heart rate and breathing temps, causing an increase in oxygen consumption and transportation through the body, allowing muscles to work more efficiently. 

What makes a good pump-up song? The repetitive beats in genres like rock, electronic, and hip-hop, can all act as a stimulant, giving athletes an extra boost of energy, and sustaining a consistent level of intensity throughout training and competitions alike.

Music and motivation: Fuel for the fire

Walk into any gym or stadium, more often than not, you’ll likely hear music pumping through the speakers, but why? Many people create personal playlists, not just for sports, but soundtracks for life – why walk in silence when you could be listening to the complete soundtrack of your favourite movie? Your song choices pregame become more than just a playlist – it becomes a ritual, a psychological trigger that cues the brain to get ready for action. Many athletes have “go-to” songs that are associated with their peak performances, and use these tracks to build confidence and evoke feelings that have been linked to past successes.

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles is known to listen to “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson before every routine, world class swimmer Michael Phelps listened to Eminem and EDM music throughout his career, and tennis player Coco Guaff listens to “Icon” by Jaden Smith. This ritual of listening to music before performance helps prepare athletes mentally, allowing them to focus on their goals while also reducing anxiety and stress. The combination of rhythm and positive association with past performances creates a powerful connection between music and success.

The role of music in recovery and relaxation

While high-energy songs are essential during intense moments, music during the recovery phase is equally critical to an athlete’s performance. Music can serve as an effective tool for cool-down routines and post-game relaxation. Research has shown that slower, calming music can help lower heart rate, reduce muscle tension, and enhance relaxation.

Many athletes listen to softer, more chill music to aid in their recovery, using it as a way to transition from the high intensity of competition to a state of mental and physical rest. Classical music or acoustic genres have been found to promote a calm state of mind, enabling athletes to recover faster both physically and mentally. The act of winding down with music helps to lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and increase serotonin, aiding in muscle recovery and promoting an overall sense of well-being.

Mental edge

Beyond improving physical performance, music also provides a mental edge in sports. Elite athletes often have to manage nerves, focus their minds, and maintain composure in high-pressure situations. Music helps athletes hone concentration by drowning out distractions like roaring crowds and the stress of performance, providing a consistent auditory cue for focus. The rhythmic nature of music can also act as a grounding tool, helping athletes get “in the zone” by eliminating thoughts of failure or doubt.

For some athletes, music can serve as a form of mental conditioning. For example, listening to the same songs before every game or race creates a routine that the brain begins to associate with peak performance. This association reinforces the idea that these specific tracks signal success, helping athletes transition into a winning mindset.

How can we be sure?

The science behind the relationship between music and athletic performance is not just anecdotal; numerous studies have shown the positive impact of music on physical outcomes. In one study, runners who listened to high-tempo music during a 5K race showed improved times and higher levels of perceived effort, compared to those who ran without music. Another study found that athletes who listened to motivational songs during strength training sessions were able to lift more weight and perform additional reps than those training without music.

However, it is important to note that the impact of music on performance varies between individuals. Some athletes may respond better to motivational songs, while others may prefer to focus on the sounds of their surroundings. The key to using music as an advantage is personalization. The right soundtrack for each athlete can make all the difference. Just because someone may listen to Ed Sheeran on game day does not mean they will perform any better or worse than someone who listened to Kendrick Lamar.

Soundtrack to victory

As noted, music’s influence on sports is multi-faceted, impacting not only an athlete’s physical performance, but their mental and emotional well-being. From the motivational beats that energize players before a match to the soothing sounds that aid in recovery afterward, music is an essential tool in any athlete’s arsenal. Whether it is through heightened focus, improved endurance, or a boosted mood, the right rhythm can have a significant effect on results. In the world of sports, where every advantage counts, the power of music is undeniable – a true soundtrack to success.

So, next time you are gearing up for a big game, or hitting the gym for a tough session, do not forget to press play on that playlist. After all, the right song just might be the key to unlocking your full potential.