Sometimes our lazy asses get in the way of our workout plans and at times we tend to lack enthusiasm in exercising because of the weather. Good thing I've figured out for myself how I can motivate myself better. This is not a new idea, however. Aerobics programs have long incorporated music in their classes. Music induces fun and makes the struggle in holding dumbells, balls and sticks against gravity less burdensome. The rhythm and the beat can better replace the dry counting. So I think generally, music, like a drug, improves performance.
Aside from Aerobics, Striptease (or aero-striptease) is another fitness activity that relies on music. I learned that in Striptease, you have to find the right song for the right moves and mood. Yes, I've tried striptease aerobics and it is actually fun. However, I was looking for something that can do more than burn my calories and fats. (And something that doesn't require 'strip' props). I want something that is centered on myself, not to some 'audience'. Simply, I needed a strengthening program since it has always been my goal to be a SURVIVOR (haha! whatever that means!). I enjoyed the striptease stint (since I prefer it more than aerobics and it made my senior year in college remarkable) but I don't think my warm up routine and Kihon would fit strip songs. :P
So here, I'm sharing my top 10 workout songs:
1. PASSIVE - A Perfect Circle
I dunno about you, but when I work out, I always think that I am preparing for some battle. I definitely like this dark and haunting song. It is slow but powerful. I play this when I do my stretching and imagine my enemy lurking somewhere near me. Haha..So I consider this a good song to rev up my energy. Anyway, this is the kind of a song you sing to an 'enemy'. I think it can give good motivation whether your enemy is another peron or yourself.
2. PULL ME UNDER - Dream Theater
With all the blasting instruments, I surely enjoy working out in this one! This is one of my favorite DT songs. Every beat and bang of the drum, plus the electrifying guitar riffs can take you to a whole new level of working out..WHEW! The long 'instrumetals' are awesome. I play this twice when I exercise and that is equivalent to almost 20 minutes. Emotionally, this song sets me in a 'fighter' mode with the "pull me under, pull me under..I am not afraid" mantra chorus.
3. I'LL MAKE A MAN OUT OF YOU - Mulan Soundtrack
The only Disney song in my list. haha. This is one of the greatest songs for me. Mulan has always been my fave and I watched it maybe 10 times now. This song was played while their team prepared for a battle against the Huns. Whenever I hear this, I remember how Mulan survived the death defying training. Mulan is one of the fictional characters I truly admire. This song inspires me A LOT. "Mysterious as the dark side of the moon..." reminds me that in a battle, you have to overwhelm your opponent by being swift, unpredictable and mysterious. (but then it' so hard to do!) And with this song, I always remember my Sensei. I think of his encouragements and his faith in our team..and the times I think I've become a disappointment to him. Maybe if he has a song for us, it'll be THIS. You know that feeling when you badly want to make someone you adore and respect so much proud??? Well, this song gets me really sentimental but at the same time gives me the drive and courage.
4. ENTER SANDMAN - Metallica
Do i need to explain?
5. SHUT UP AND LET ME GO - The Ting Tings
I like the danceable beat of this song plus the accent of the singer. This is the only song in my list that is sung by a woman. As you can see, the title simply spells ANGST. Angst towards love or a former love?! haha. I guiltily find pleasure in this song because of the lyrics. In a way, it is empowering haha.
6. SHOW ME HOW TO LIVE - Audioslave
Feeling sweaty and while listening to the bass line of this song is quite an experience haha. And hearing Chris Cornell.........WAAAA.A great interlude.
7. HARUKA KANATA - Naruto
I don't understand this song at all since it is in Japanese, but I get fueled by the energy contained in it.I love the guitar riffs and bass lines. Like a ninja-in-training I tell myself; 'more sweat in training, less blood in battle'.
8. IRISH BLOOD ENGLISH HEART - Morrissey
This anthemic song is surprisingly on my list. I dunno, there's a magic in this song that pushes me to MOVE!!! This is a very powerful song with biting lyrics and it sets me and my idealism on FIIIRE.XD
9. BLOOD RED SUMMER - Coheed and Cambria
This upbeat and fun song relaxes me (by now, you see that my whole workout theme is aggression hahaha). It's not a rage-with-me song but a refreshing one given the smooth voice of Claudio. So this is a good 'transition' song to cooling down and/or taming down :))
10. DOSED - Red Hot Chili Pepper
I love this song. This is a perfect 'cooling' down song for me... Best to hear "lay on, lay on, lay on, lay on..."after executing a rigorous routine. Relaxing sad song...plus I love the harmony :)
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