Music is a healthy way to release feelings and emotions. We can listen to it no matter what mood we are in, and it might completely alter our attitude in the moment. I can’t tell you how many times I have climbed into my car while irritable, with a mind filled with negativity, but when I turned the radio on and a song I liked began playing, I instantly started smiling and singing along. I have noticed the power music has in my life, and I have used it to my advantage during recovery by putting those songs in a workout playlist. Whether it is a way to vent, motivation to work out, or setting the mood to meditate, my favorite songs help get me through the day.
When it comes to working out, music is a must for most people. It distracts from the burn, keeps your interest, and motivates you to continue pushing until the end. When you combine music with video, it takes it to another level. Studies have shown that listening to music while running, lifting weights, biking, or doing other forms of exercise boosts performance. The days when I have gone for a run without music are torture to me; I get incredibly bored. I struggle running faster than a walking pace, and my distance is embarrassingly short.
The Perfect Workout Playlist
When I throw my headphones on and crank up the volume, I can go twice the distance and at a much faster pace. Now, you can’t watch YouTube while going for a jog outdoors, but letting music videos play while running on a treadmill is a great way to entertain you while you burn calories and strengthen your heart. Exercise can be the key ingredient to a full recovery from an addiction; use all of the resources you can get to make a workout successful. Here are 15 awesome music videos that will get you through your workout no matter what it is.
Happy
I can’t say enough good things about Pharrell Williams and this music video. I don’t think I have made it through it once without smiling.
The Monster
I love the lyrics, tempo, and music in this song, and Eminem and Rihanna put on a great crazy performance.
Just a Dream
Nelly has a voice so sweet that it melts my heart. This music video is one that I love to listen to and watch while doing an abs workout.
Timber
Instead of sitting on the couch and turning on your favorite show, why not do a little workout while you watch this very entertaining music video done by Pitbull and Ke$ha?
Wake Me Up
I love a music video that tells a story, and Avicii tells a touching one that will have you interested from the first few seconds.
Roar
Katy Perry has some of the funniest music videos on YouTube; it is definitely something she is known for. This video is fun but is also laced with a wonderful message. This song will add empowerment to any workout playlist.
Empire
I love listening to Shakira while doing yoga and stretches. Her music videos always keep my interest, but it is her songs that get me through my routines.
Sweatpants
Childish Gambino takes music and video and creates a song so entertaining that you won’t even notice you’re working out.
Beating Heart
Ellie Goulding’s voice is one of my favorites to listen to. I can play this music video over and over, and it always leaves me feeling good inside.
Last Friday Night
I already enjoyed this song, but watching this music video changed my perspective completely. It is hilarious, and Katy Perry does an awesome job playing her dorky part.
Sail
An essential song on any workout playlist. This is a pretty popular song nowadays, and Awolnation did a superb job on the music video. If you are feeling a little weak, this song and video are sure to boost your stamina.
A Thousand Years
This song might be slow, but Christina Perri sings powerful words with an angelic voice. It is a great video to watch while finishing up a workout.
Say Something
The emotion felt in this music video is conveyed with perfection by A Great Big World and Christina Aguilera. It’s another great cool-down song.
What Makes You Beautiful
One Direction is a boy band with perfect smiles. They are entertaining to watch, but this song is also fun to listen to.
I Am Gold
This is not your typical music, but Alex Boye has a voice that is so unique that it is addicting. His Jamaican songs are uplifting and get positive energy flowing. His music is inspiring and is proof that music videos can have a direct impact on a workout.
Rehab at Morningside Recovery
At Morningside Recovery, we encourage our clients to find activities that can help them stave off relapse and improve their mental and physical health. Along with exercise, we offer addiction therapy services that allow clients to try out new activities through adventure therapy and experiential therapy. To learn more about these options, call us today at 855-631-2135.
