What should you listen to when you’re running?
If you google around, there’s a few Spotify playlists for ‘running motivation 2025′. But actually, should you listen to anything when you’re running, and what’s worth listening to? Let me help..
The best running music..
The best music to listen to when you’re running is the one that keeps you running!
No, really. Since I’ve started running years ago, and over my years of half marathon training, and just running for fun, I can’t run without music. My advice for you is to try and listen to what feels good for you. There’s really no right or wrong.
I’m sure you’ll try one type of sound and it won’t suit you. And then you’ll try something else, and your run will click into place. That’s a bit like me with podcasts. Let’s dive into my recommendations.
Types of running music
You can head over to Spotify, Amazon Music or Apple Music to listen. Search around for running music or motivation and you’ll be flooded with suggestions.
1. Upbeat Music
There’s so much on Spotify! Just search running music. In fact, here’s some of the playlists I often put on. I actually download the music so I don’t use all my data when I’m running.
By Alicemhobbs: Run steady upbeat
2. Bass, hip hop, rock..
I’m a big fan of drum and bass music when it comes to running. But hip hop can work too! The beat can really help you stick to the same pace. I’ve even tried some of the Rocky Balboa music theme tunes, which works a treat especially up those hills.
This is a great example of a Run n Bass playlist on Spotify.
3. Songs about running
You can actually listen to songs about running. Spotify has so many songs about running and it can help get you in the mood for a run. But if you’re like me, you need a bit of a beat to get going.
4. Podcasts
I’ve tried listening to podcasts about running when I’m doing my thing – but it’s not motivating enough. I need the music to spur me on! But the Running Channel Podcast has some great content on if you want to try it.
Or you can listen to ‘The Morning Shakeout” or “Ali on the Run.“
What should you listen to when you’re running?
You can listen to anything when you’re running, it’s just about finding what works for you. Sometimes you might want the peace and quiet of your route, preferring no headphones. But sometimes you’ll need some form of music.
Both are okay! If you’re new to running and want to know how to get started as a beginner runner, check out my article on that.
Here’s some more advice on music from a fellow runner
According to extensive research you should listen to specific music to allow the beats help your running speed etc, but I found that I enjoy my runs much more when I listen to something I actually enjoy. I still get flashbacks to the Orlen Marathon 2015, when I hear Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger by Daft Punk as that was the opening song of my training playlist. Currently I listen to podcasts, e.g. Murder Mile Podcast or audiobooks – one of my favorite ones must be Don’t Stop Me Now: 26.2 Tales of a Runner’s Obsession by Vassos Alexander. I’d recommend listening to something you enjoy as it will make you want to go and complete your run.
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Written by Katie McDonald, 27th April 2024, Updated, 24th April 2025.
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