Music is more than what it shows. Though it may appear only a confluence of notes and lyrics, those are but the surface. From beats to rhythm to emotion, that is where the real secret to music’s multiple benefits lies. Its ability to rejuvenate the mind and release stress is no mystery, but its connection to enhanced physical performance is lesser known. Music has been called a ‘legal performance-enhancing drug’ by some of the world’s leading psychologists of exercise music. Its use is even restricted in several international sporting occasions, like USA Track and Field events, even today, to prevent adding unfair advantage to any athlete’s performance. It not only offers a healthy distraction from physical exertions but also improves physical activity level and endurance. But what is its connection to exercise? This guide will explore it in detail.
Music helps kids and adults disassociate mentally during physical activity. It helps draw their attention away from pain or fatigue and sends the body on auto-pilot mode. As a result, individuals resiliently persevere and develop endurance, both mental and muscular. Music also helps perform better by listening to faster beats and picking up the physical tempo to high-intensity workouts.
Conversely, it helps lower stress levels and heart rate when engaging in moderate-intensity exercises. Since music pleasures individuals and improves their mood and mental well-beingwell-being, listening to it while exercising has a special benefit. It can improve the kid or individual’s adherence and commitment to physical activity and build long-term endurance and perseverance.
Peppy music also makes people want to move and burn some restless energy, while music in general enhances performance and pushes people to perform better. A very small example would be finishing a workout early with 10 minutes remaining in the playlist can lead to some extra reps and improved fitness in kids due to the right mindset and musical motivation.
If your kid or family is into music and would like to use it to enhance their exercise and performance, be it in sports or athletics, then prepare playlists early. It is not possible to choose and skip songs during exercise, so pair and prepare playlists accordingly. Use low intensity songs for the warm-up, high intensity songs for the main workout portion and soothing songs for the cooling-down exercises.
No kid or adult would like their playlist to finish in the middle of their workout, right when they are peaking. It will immediately cause their motivation and energy levels to drop and disrupt physical activity and performance. Therefore, if an individual works out or engages in a physical activity for an hour and a half, then their playlist should be just as long, if not longer. It is always ideal to keep a couple of songs extra to ensure you do not run out of music or time.
When making a playlist for working out, include a lot of peppy and hit numbers for the ideal workout high, but also add many personal favorites. These will help make the experience pleasurable and inspire you to do better. But keep switching songs weekly or monthly, even through favorites, to not get tired of hearing them. That will not do one’s physical endurance and performance any favors.
Positive reinforcement always works in favor of kids, be it in the form of verbal appreciation, physical affection, privileges, or rewards. If your child does not find it motivating enough to engage in physical activity daily, then raise the stakes. For example, give them a weekly target of being able to do 20 pushups at once, with proper posture. If they do well, give them music or physical activity related gifts to keep the cycle going. Music will be there to lift them when they fall, and positive reinforcement will keep their motivation high.
While you are there to guide your kid through the process of making playlists according to workout or fitness regime and teaching them how to keep up pace, let them choose as well. Kids feel less inclined to try something they do not have a say in. Plus, music is personal. If your teenager likes rock songs and will perform better by listening to them, you cannot force classical music on them and expect them to either listen to it or work out.
Music is an important part of working out, especially in the 21st century. From children to adolescents to adults, all prefer enhancing their physical activity and endurance by moving to the beats of music and naturally boosting performance. So, give this guide a try and watch your kids reap the benefits of exercise music in no time.