So it's been pretty obvious from reading my blog during the past 6 months that I'm moving more and eating less.
Part of me moving more is wholly dependent on a) choosing an activity I can stick to, and b) ably supporting it with music.
My current activities are running, biking and swimming. The latter two don't really work so well with music, from both a safety and practicality standpoint. But running? That's the basket containing all of my iTunes eggs.
I've been asked by a number of you to share some of my mixes and I'm happy to do so. Keep in mind, different music motivates different people. You may not really be a big Billy Joel fan and may scratch your head as you realize my whole "I like cool music" front is nothing but a clever ruse. Still, perhaps my added commentary will help to explain where my head was at the time.
Let's begin, shall we?
It started back in March, when I was really just starting to make progress in my short running career. I think I had managed to work my way up to 15 or 20 minutes of nonstop jogging at around 4 mph. The mix that helped push me there? The Michael Jackson Run Mix:
True, a few non-MJ songs brought this mix home, but this collection was a happy experiment. I rarely like to workout to one artist for the entire time. Yes, I'll put more than one track by the same artist on a mix, but not THIS many.
The mix worked really well for me. Who doesn't like a good MJ song every now and then, right? I mean, it's actually hard to hold still while listening to mama say, mama sa, mama coo sa. By the time I warmed up (2 minutes of walking before jogging) and got to Smooth Criminal, I was a sweaty mess. I never really made it to the end of the mix though. I'd do my 30 minutes, then just jump ahead to the cool down songs (Human Nature and Down to Earth.)
But Michael was growing tired for me, and I knew: time to mix it up (yes, pun intended.)
Enter Run Mix 2:
This mix was designed with a bit more grit in mind. Some old school hip hop (Rapper's Delight, a song that I made up a really elaborate dance to in the 8th grade, and Fight the Power) combined with a bit of good old dance pop and electronica-tinged pop. This mix pushed me into the 30 minutes of running category (still in my basement, mind you). I realized that the hip hoppier/dance beats were a better bet for continued success.
Then, I started running outside with Run Mix 3:
You will notice mix carryover. Some songs were just too good to leave behind. This mix still reminds me of the shock and awe of running outside, and realizing, holy hell, that I actually liked it BETTER! Starting off with that Dixie Chicks song was perfection. I really was taking the long way around to better health and fitness. Not a shortcut in sight. It was almost a spiritual way to kick off a run. Again, the mix was way longer than what I needed, but therein lies the beauty of being able to jump around.
Favorite song of this mix? Tidal Wave by Owl City. It never fails to pick me up and make me feel instantly more floaty and light.
Next up, my recent running favorite, the ingeniously named Run Mix 4:
Again, you've got your carry over songs, along with a whole new gaggle of songs to test out. Some favorites on this mix? Creep by Radiohead (surprisingly motivating), Root Down by The Beastie Boys (makes me giggle and feel really hip hop and old school), Everlong by Foo Fighters (you will have no choice but to pick up your pace just a bit), X-Static Process by Madonna (even though it's a slower song, I LOVED having this at the end of my run), and Some Fantastic by Barenaked Ladies (a nice cool down song that just makes me happy.)
My newest mix hasn't even been tested yet. In fact, by the time you are reading this post, hopefully, I will have hit the road and can report back via Twitter: success or failure. And you guessed it! It's called Run Mix 5.
I am anticipating two things: 1) Secret World (from the Secret Live World disk), at nine minutes, will be either the most epic run song for me ever, or conversely, one of the worst) 2) One Tree Hill by U2 will make me run as if carried along by glitter-laden, gossamer wings, and 3) Running to a Stand Still will find me curled up in a fetal position weeping.
By all means, while I'm out there work-shopping this one, please do share your favorite workout songs in the comments today. It's such a great way to get some new and motivating tunage.
Note: but please, for the love of iTunes, I urge you: be more creative than me in naming your mixes. I'm guessing that won't be a hard bill to fill.
Bna311 says
I have yet to try it myself, but I have seen this really cool waterproof mp3 player by speedo. I told myself I have to stick with the whole swimming thing for at least 6 months before I can buy it. http://www.speedousa.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3106714&ab=110609_accessories_shop_aquabeat&cp=3124326.3128423.3132052
If I Can...You Can says
LOVE your mixes. I have to suggest “Push It” by Salt n’ Pepper (or you can go with the Glee version). It always steps my pace up just a notch. Keep on RUNNIN’
Susan C says
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your running mixes. Time to shout me some new songs.
For the record, I once managed a whole hour on the treadmill listening only to Neil Finn and Crowded House. I picked up the wrong iPod on the way to the gym. 🙁 Some worked better than others but then thats what the fast forward button is for.
Shanon Gibson says
I have an entire workout playlist of Glee! I love it but need to move some songs around….It starts off with Like A Prayer from the Madonna episode but I realized I need a slower song to warm up too.
My next playlist may have some System of a Down on it….some of their songs really get me moving even though I am not a huge fan of the music. I also think I am going to toss in some Pink as well….So What is fun and I never tire of hearing it!
Nancy M says
See, I’m a chronological-loving numbers person, so your names for your playlists make perfect sense to me. I haven’t made up a playlist yet, I just listen to BonJovi as I walk/jog through the weeks of the C25k program. Eventually I will break out and actually learn how & make up playlists, numbered of course 😉
ale says
thanks for sharing, cathy! love your running mixes, especially number 4. radiohead and green day are on my top 10 favorite bands. and i love the dixie chicks too.
inspired by your “tales from the scale”, i’ve just signed up for a gym membership. i hope i can stick to it…
Jo says
Sugar! Wow I had forgotton all about them. I had that single on vinyl and loved it. Isn’t that the great thing about iTunes (etc) that you can download those old favourites and the touch of a few buttons. Must download that one – hmm wonder if I can remember all the words?
Natalie says
Ooh, good stuff. Always looking for new ideass for running tracks. U2 Where the Streets Have No Name will always be my ultimate running track, and then I have to throw out two that saved my ass during a particularly difficult run (the Dead Sea Half Marathon in Jordan and YES I am bragging, forgive me, I got that darn Tshirt and earned it with pain!) Falco’s Rock Me Amadeus and Prince’s Kiss. Keep it up Cathy, we are loving your success!!
Jane Toft says
Great mixes. I find there’s nothing like a bleak, urban depressing industrial sound to keep me pounding the lanes! ‘Unknown Pleasures’ album by Joy Division fits the bill perfectly.
cathy says
Susan, i used to have an entire CH walking mix from the last time i tried to get into shape! : )
cathy says
Jo, by the way, that song was EXCELLENT to run to this morning. Probably the best beat on the mix. Make sure you get the acoustic one, and if they don’t have it, just email me and i’ll hook you up!
cathy says
Nice! I found “Creep” to be very nice and moody this morning as the sun was rising higher in the sky, and a train was passing me by while running a short stretch I like to think of as Kidnapper’s Lane (it’s sort of a desolate stretch, but a VERY short one.)
cathy says
A half in Jordan? Oh, you brag ALL you want to, Natalie. Amazing.
I think i will add both of those songs!
Oh, and this morning I did run to I still haven’t found what i’m looking for and loved it.
Also? Gloria is SUCH a good song to run to!
Barb M. says
Thanks for sharing. It was a fun read.
BTW, there is nothing wrong with simple. I use numerical order on my computer all the time. It is great for photo edits as I can find the original and the latest changes quickly.
cathy says
I LOVE that song. Both versions!
cathy says
i think i would like Livin on a Prayer to run to. Who wouldnt?
cathy says
You actually can! Just try your best to make time. Get your moneys worth. : )
cathy says
i have a madonna Glee mix, from the episode, and then tossed in other Madge songs on it!
jill_in_AL says
I’m about ready for another running mix….got some great song ideas from you. What’s sad is that when I hear songs from my running mixes on the radio my mind feels like I should be running and not driving. It’s very “Pavlov’s Dog”ish LOL!
Beth says
I don’t actually run, but I do walk…my favorite walking song is Super Massive Black Hole by Muse. It has a nice fast pace that helps me pick up mine 🙂
Cheryl says
I love to MOVE to music (whether it’s walking or my attempt at jogging – still trying to get that one to work without shin splints). Anyway, although I love music there are so many choices out there that I don’t even know where to begin on making a playlist. I think that today I’ll spend a little time (and if you don’t mind) copy one of your playlists and see how it goes. Thanks for the info. and as always love reading your posts….
Carol says
I started walk/running last week, thank you so much for the inspiration. I’ve got my Nike+ working for me and I’ve added several songs you recommended. I’ve also added two songs from Michael Franti and Spearhead – The Sound of Sunshine and Say Hey, along with Lindsey’s Bossy, and Train’s If Its Love (mostly because it makes me happy and reminds me of my husband). Oh, The Flying Lizards: Money (That’s What I Want), and Wynonna Judd’s Girls with Guitars are on my playlist too. LOL, way too much on there for my 20 minute current workout!
Melanie says
i just have one HUGE playlist that I put on shuffle whenever I workout – my two favorite songs in the mix? Gettin’ Jiggy With It – Will Smith & Rock Your Body – Justin Timberlake. Love ’em. Thanks for all the new ideas to add to my mix!
Angela Hancock says
Thanks so much for sharing! 🙂 A few of my current faves are 3OH!3 Don’t Trust Me, Shake That by Eminem, When I Come Around Green Day 🙂
Carol.in.Canada says
Love your posts on music and working out! I have one song to add, one I’ve been loving lately. Heard it first in my Body Combat class (which is the BEST stress reliever I’ve found in a looonnngg time!) and it’s “Love Drunk” by Boys Like Girls. Love that song. I’ve got Gwen Stefani, the Dixie Chicks and Glee on my playlists too. The one alternative song that I loved to jog to (always got me through the very end of my jog) was “She Is Beautiful” by Andrew W.K. Keep it up!! Have a great week. (I know I will, it’s my birthday on Friday!)
Melissa Piccone says
I don’t run, I walk and need a fast beat to move, but here are some of my favs: Are You Gonna Be My Girl – Jet, Gone Daddy Gone – Violent Fems, Party – Pink, Tainted Love – Soft Cell, Disturbia – Rihanna, Just Dance – Lady GaGa, I Will Survive – Gloria Gayner, A Little Less Conversation – Elvis Presley, Love Shack – b-52s, Baby Got Back – Sir Mix A Lot.
cathy says
Okay, THAT looks cool. Maybe Ill do the same. If i stick with swimming for 6 months, i get the tunes.
cathy says
i almost bought gettin jiggy with it the other day. think ill have to do it!
cathy says
hey, its my sons birthday friday! happy day!
cathy says
Love that song. I love Muse.
Pam says
I’m loving all of these suggestions! I really need to create a few more mixes! A couple of my faves are “Hot Legs” – Rod Stewart (cuz we know we want them!) “Where are we Runnin” – great start up! And my #1 song right now, “Satisfaction” by the Stones!
Tobey Saniuk says
Livin’ On A Prayer, Lost Highway, You Give Love A Bad Name and a couple others are all on my playlists. Who doesn’t love a good Bon Jovi song? (or just a good Bon Jovi at that!)
Megan says
Ha! This was fun, seeing what you get down to…I have tons of old school–Harry Nilsson probably being my most ‘obscure’ artist…’jump into the fire’ is my current powersong. (Try sitting still while listening to the drum solo. Impossible.) and my playlist is titled: Running songs. Sorry. 😉
Megan says
Also love to start out to Darryl Worley’s ‘A good day to run’–cheerful, upbeat song, perfect for getting started.
Megan says
but it’s a country song…not sure you have too much of that. 😉
cathy says
Didnt Harry Nilsson do the Point? Oh my god. Love that. My daughters school did a performance of that.
Love the songs.
Sandi D says
Thanks for the exercise playlist suggestions. Music keeps me going when I exercise so I like to get a really good mix of songs. Here are a few on my playlist that I am enjoying:
Head Will Roll- Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs
When I grow up- Pussycat Dolls
A Punk- Vampire Weekend
Chelsea Dagger- The Fratelles (a must have for hockey fans in Chicago!)
Your Love is My Drug- KeSha
Nicole Czarnecki says
I can’t believe it took you that long to add Green Day!
cathy says
Oh, i should have mentioned: Walking Contradiction is my Power Song. NEVER fails to make me go.
Deitra Hart says
You should totally add LL Cool J “Mama said Knock You Out!” to get things revved up and Pearl Jam’s “Unthought Known” to cool down! Hope you are doing great, Foxy Lady 🙂
Deitra 🙂
cathy says
Oh yeah, I LOVE that LL Cool J song.
How are you, you fine southern thang, you?
Rebecca Foxworth says
Flo Rida’s “Low” never fails to get my butt moving. “Eye of the Tiger” is always good. “Boom Boom Pow” is overplayed right now, but still gets you going. “Mama Said Knock You Out” by L.L. Cool J. “It Takes Two” by Rob Base and DJ EZ Rock. “La Vida Loca” by Ricky Martin. C&C Music factory’s “Gonna Make You Sweat”. “Milkshake” by Kelis. “Walking on the Sun” by Smashmouth. “Let’s Go Crazy” by Prince. “Fergalicious” by Fergie.
MilliD says
Awesome mixes! Now if only I would RUN to them! If you haven’t heard of Pomplamoose, you MUST check them out on YouTube. Not sure if they qualify as running material, but once you see one of their video songs you’ll be hooked. They are seriously talented and funny. Here’s one of my faves (I mean, how can you go wrong with Earth, Wind, & Fire??:
Carla says
Love your mixes — in the process of switching some around right now.
My pick me up song at 30 minutes into the run is, “I Run For Life” by Melissa Etheridge. Sing out loud motivation — power!
And “Low” by Flo Rida as someone else mentioned. I don’t give my “big booty” a slap as the lyrics suggest — but I can’t help slapping my own thigh when prompted!
Keep posting your mixes — love new ideas!
Cindy says
ELEW’s JazzRock version of Mr. Brightside. OMG I feel like I can fly when I hear this – I am 56, thirty saggy pounds from goal and floppy when I run. (Yet, when this is playing the whole gossamer wing, shaft of glory light from heaven and sparkly twinkles floating around me is happening in my head)
Add to it John Rutter’s Gloria, and I am transported to another realm entirely.
Then, to bring me back to earth but not slow down, a dose of Bollywood fun, Tunak Tunak Tun by Daler Mehndi. You can check out the fun with that on youtube.
Angela says
These are some of my current favorite, most buoyant songs:
Lollipop 3:04 Mika Life In Cartoon Motion
That’s Not My Name 5:11 The Ting Tings We Started Nothing
Cobrastyle 3:00 Teddybears featuring Mad Cobra Cobrastyle – EP
I’m Alive 3:14 Next To Normal Soundtrack (Next to Normal is a show on Broadway right now – the whole soundtrack is so good!)
Thanks for sharing yours! I got a few good ones off your list.
Linda says
I’m doing the couch to 5K program so have some songs on my mix – some faves include Refugee by U2 and Walls Come Tumbling by the Style Council – find them both good to move to! Love your mixes, might have to copy a few of them!!
Kristen Stewart (no, not that one!) says
After 11 years of running, I still love having Love Shack (B-52’s) in the mix. It dates me terribly, but I’m OK with that….
Dawn says
The ones that really get me through the tough part of the run and keep my legs moving are: Rob Thomas – This is How a Heart Breaks (love the oh, oh, oh-oh gal in the back) and Truly by Delerium f. Nerina Pallot. Very good!
Kelly K says
ha, my mixes are cleverly named Running, Running1, etc. I didn’t even take the time to write the word “mix” or put a space after Running!
The one song that has never left my mix is Metro Station’s Shake it. And a good “I’ve hit the wall and I have nothing more to give” song to have is Salvation by The Cranberries.
RobynS says
So you started me on this Nike+ thing and am happy to report I turned green last night. I can only walk due to back surgery but I am out moving and have even done over 5 miles in one shot a few times. So a few of the songs on my walk list are… LaLa Ashlee Simpson, Teenage Dream Katy Perry,Black Horse and the Cherry Tree KT Tungstall, Hey Soul Sister Train, Shake It Metro Station, Snow (Hey Oh) Red Hot Chili Peppers, Iris Goo Goo Dolls, Voices Carry ‘Til Tuesday, Where the Streets have No Name U2,Hung Up Madonna, Young Folks Peter Bjorn & John, Sweet Escape Gwen Stefani,Follow Me Down 3OH!3, Pilgrim Eric Clapton, Weird Fishes/Arpeggi Radiohead, Breathe Me Sia – New power song Live Like We’re Dying Kris Allen.
Now I wish I would have gone to Lucy’s before we left because I love your skirt. Turns out my sister’s friend works there…. Take care – Robyn
cathy says
i have heard of them! off to check it out.
Kim says
My two favorites right now “Shake it” by Michael Franti & Spearhead and “I’m Free” by the Soup Dragons. You can’t help but want to move to Michael Franti. I listened to “I’m Free” before every law school final and just found it again 16 years later on itunes – love it!
cathy says
oh i love that flo rida song too!
cathy says
GREEN RULES! Way to go, Robyn.
Another skirt i am loving? New Balance Bonita Skirt 3.0. Love this skirt more than the lucy one!
Tammy B says
I have about 300+ songs on my MP3 player (no IPod for this girl) and it won’t make playlists but…The Foo Fighters are definitely on there. I also have Linkin Park, Metric, U2, Mother Mother, Dave Matthews Band, Green Day, Matthew Good, Nickelback, The Offspring, Our Lady Peace, Rise Against, a little Steve Miller Band among many other! I can’t believe that I just listed those in alphabetical order!! Anyway, I cannot work out without my music. I put it on shuffle and if a song doesn’t work for me at that moment, I just go to the next one. Love music – where would we be without it!
Christine says
Haha so you mean we’re not original if we name our workout mixes – W.O.1 W.O.2 W.O.3 W.O.4, etc? 🙂 I’ve lost 60 pounds so far and my goal in the beginning was to workout 20 minutes everyday, so I designed mixes on itunes that were roughly 20 minutes long or so. I remember in the beginning I kept looking at the ipod seeing how much longer I had left to go so I could stop. Now I love working out. I remember the first song I put on my ipod when I started working out was Billy Squier’s She’s A Runner. Love that song and now I put it on every mix I make, as a memory of how far I’ve come. Silly I know. And I am a dork – I get excited when I create a new mix and find new songs (from back then that I forgot about) to workout to. My playlists consist mainly of classic rock and 80’s rock & hair metal bands, lots of Zep & Boston. You’re actually inspiring me to RUN. OUTSIDE. I would have never thought of that before, I use the treadmill (and when I first started working out, all I had to workout on was the Gazelle by Tony Little, remember that? haha.) I went to checkout running shoes this weekend and am now actually excited to start. Thanks for the inspiration Cathy.
Laura Liddle says
Ricky Martin’s “Livin’ La Vida Loca” — seems to fit my life right now!
Lynn L. says
Nothing keeps me moving at the end
of a run when I am starting to dog it and need something to put a little extra zip in my step like “Move Along” by the All American Rejects. The words alone are awesome, but the music always helps me to finish strong!!!
Liz says
I too would suggest a waterproof player – good if you run in the rain, also. I had no idea they existed until last week – I think I saw one in Real Simple?
Barbara says
I’m so very Old School; I LOVE Tom Petty in my head while I run. At the rick of being too literal, especially Running Down a Dream; it’s the PERFECT pace for me. Makes me happy.
Heidi says
This is a post I’ve been waiting for, Cathy.
Thank you for posting your playlists!
Cameron says
Cathy, has anyone told you about RunHundred.com? You can sort songs by Genre, Decade, or–my favorite–BPM, beats per minute. You can listen to snippets of songs to see if you like them, there’s a top ten for each month in the right sidebar, and there’s even an app for iPods and iPhones to determine how many BPMs there are in the songs in your library. It’s not perfect, but it is fun and an interesting resource! 🙂
AmySorensen says
I hope your run was good this morning!
When I ran my last half marathon, right when I hit the wall, “In God’s Country” came up on my random playlist. It gave me a little bit of courage to keep going even though I felt like I was running through mud. And, did you know: Running to Stand Still is my favorite-ever U2 song? Just a random bit of trivia…
I don’t do playlists. I tend to get frustrated when i know what song is coming up next. I like random and unexpected. So I group my songs on my player by running and everything else, and then I just let the running songs play on random while I run. I am ashamed and embarrassed to confess that I LOVE to run to Lady Gaga and get a little extra thrill when “Love Game” comes up. I also like nearly all of Paramour’s songs.
cathy says
Go Christine! : )I never thought i would run outside. Now the thought of the treadmill is depressing to me. Like, ill do it if i have to, but its just not the same.
cathy says
youre welcome! : )
cathy says
Running to a Stand Still… sigh, i listened to it twice this am after the run. It gives me chills from head to toe.
I might try a shuffle run. I NEVER shuffle. Never even think of doing it. Im doing it on Wednesdays runs, for kicks.
cathy says
Hey, i have foreigner and billy joel on mine. Im so old school! LOL!
cathy says
Cameron, i havent seen that sight! Im off to check it. I have an app for my iPod that helps determine BPM. I like running to songs in the 150s. This could be cool!
tencraftyfingers says
Oh the songs….too many to count. But if you’re interested in mixing it up add in a little “Boogie Wonderland” by Earth, Wind and Fire featuring the Emotions. I once made created a simple workout routine to it and it definitely grooved me!
AmySorensen says
You’ll have to let me know what you think!
Every time U2 goes on tour, one of my friends wants me to come with her…I only want to go if they’ll play “Running.” Otherwise it isn’t worth it! 😉
Suzanne says
I gave you some suggestions a few months a go(now that we found love, Heavy D) but now i have my list in front of me and I have more!
1.Together Again, Janet Jackson
2.Check it Out, John Mellencamp
3.All Fired Up, Pat Benetar
4.What’s the Frequency Kenneth, REM
5.Vox (Tom Middleton Mix) Sarah Mclachlan
6. It’s Not Right but It’s OK, Whitney Houston
7. I’m Every Woman Whitney Houston
8.Realease- Timberland with Justin Timberlake
9.Defying Gravity-Dance Mix (i found it on itunes)
10. Down (featuring Lil Wayne) Jay Sean
Btw, you know you’re old when you find “cool” tunes at your daughter’s dance recital (a la 8 and 10).
Good luck and so impressed with your progress!
cathy says
Im every woman would be great, and i have Together Again on another mix. Good tunes Suzanne!
Deirdre says
Run by Snow Patrol (usually at the start of my workout)
Hey Ya! by OutKast
I Run for Life by Melissa Ethridge
Pain Killer by Turin Brakes (listen to it while running…great beat for running)
Go by Indigo Girls (usually toward the end though I break back into running during the chorus
and…embarrassingly
Tubthumping (“I get knocked down”) by Chumbawumba (maybe Glee will do a version)
and really old school:
Ain’t Nothin’ Gonna Break My Stride
Those have survived through many mixes…but I obviously need some updating. looking forward to trying some of yours—thanks for this post. And, I could never do “shuffle”—I’m motivated by looking forward to favorites!
Nancy M says
he’s got alot of good songs, not too many slow ones.
Marianne says
I only have one run playlist but it is quite extensive. I have many more tunes than I need (several hours worth) which allows me to skip to another song if I’m not diggin’ the random selection. I won’t bore you with my entire playlist but a few of my VERY favorites are:
1) When It Don’t Come Easy – Patty Griffin
2) Already Gone – Kelly Clarkson
3) Bad Romance – Lady GaGa
4) Trapped – Bruce Springsteen
And the ABSOLUTE BEST song on my run playlist:
5) Proud – Heather Small
Talk about spirituality and running, every time I hear Proud, I have a spiritual experience. How could I not be moved by the words “What have you done today to make you feel proud?”? Regardless of where I am in my run (beginning, middle or end), when this songs begins to play, I am overwhelmed with pride and self-love. If you’re not familiar with this song, I strongly recommend it as an addition to your current playlist. You can always take a look at the song lyrics on the web. Wishing you many miles, Cathy!
singers says
I occasionally listen to “One Tree Hill” while running PAST One Tree Hill 😉
cathy says
now THAT is cool!
Deitra Hart says
I am doing well, skinny lady! Hobbling around with a torn ligament and a sprained ankle, but hey – I’m still walking! 🙂
JJ says
The only thing on these mixes that shocks me is that I don’t see Green Day there!
(My most motivating workout songs are all Green Day)
Joh says
i have on my running app…
another one bites the dust – queen
broken leg – bluejuice
breathless – the corrs
where have all the cowboys gone – paula cole
these are some that i like to run along the beach too at the moment 🙂
Shari says
Great playlist Cathy! I have to say though, that I have a LOT of Nickelback on my playlist. I try to change it out, but everytime I add a different song, I always seem to fast forward to them just to keep me going. I do have an interesting powersong though….A Little Less Conversation by Elvis Presley. Go figure.
Keep up the good work, and keep on inspiring us!
Margaret McGarry says
It is clear that I am going to be broke from the iTunes shopping spree which shall commence shortly after commenting…
My current running mix is not only called “Running Mix,” it also plays in alphabetical order, which, strangely, works:
1) “A-Punk” by Vampire Weekend (awesome kick-off song)
2) “Be OK” by Ingrid Michaelson
3) “Beast of Burden” by Lee DeWyze (I know it’s sacrilegious, but hey)
4) “Black Horse & The Cherry Tree” by KT Tunstall
5) “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson
6) “Closer To You” by Brandi Carlile
7) “Don’t Rain On My Parade” by the Glee Cast
8) “Falling Slowly” by Lee DeWyze & Crystal Bowersox (awesome cool-down, too)
9) “Gives You Hell” by Glee Cast
10) “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train
11) “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
12) “Love” by Matt White
13) “New Shoes” by Paolo Nutini
14) “Ready” by Cheri Magill (soooooooo motivating)
15) “She Moves In Her Own Way” by The Kooks (i.e. especially while running)
16) “Some Good Thing” by The Wailin’ Jennys
17) “Somebody to Love” by the Glee Cast
18) “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Panzer Hawaii
19) “The Story” by Brandi Carlile
20) “Walk Away” by Kelly Clarkson
21) “The Way I Am” by Ingrid Michaelson
22) “Wordplay” by Jason Mraz
23) “You and I” by Ingrid Michaelson
SmilynStef says
So fun reading your lists & all of the comments … yeah, I did some iTunes shopping too. I just have one big workout Playlist that I usually put on random. Here are a few of my favorites:
Hey Man (Now You’re Really Living) ~ Eels
Flagpole Sitta ~ Harvey Danger
Lisztomania ~ Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
4ever ~ The Veronicas
Touchdown Turnaround ~ Zombies! Aliens! Vampires! Dinosaurs!
Lollipop ~ Mika
I Really Want You ~ Plain White T’s
Dance Hall Days ~ Wang Chung
American Woman ~ Lenny Kravitz
Get The Party Started ~ Pink
Keep movin’
Leah says
Hi Cathy, thanks so much for all the ideas! I found your site only this week (thanks to Shimelle.com) as I am a scrapbooker…who is also doing WW online, trying to move more, and eat less.
SNAP!
Now I am addicted to your blog, immediately went and created my own July 10 page using your layout, am considering getting a Nike+ system and frantically downloading music to get myself motivated and moving even more. I am able to run 3K at the moment…and seeing your 5K raceday pics are great inspiration!
Cheers from NZ (@singers must live there too if she is running past One Tree Hill!)
megs_nz says
Very fun seeing your songs and everyone else’s too.
My favourite get-going songs are Uprising (Muse), She & Jesus of Suburbia (Green Day). All These Things That I’ve Done (The Killers), Hash Pipe (Weezer) and some old-school Meatloaf – Paradise by the Dashboard Light.
Have you heard To Sir With Love done by Michael Stipes and Natalie Merchant? That’s very cool too, although a bit slower.
Cheers
Megan (also NZ – we’re all on here today!)
Kim says
Is there any way to shuffle within a playlist? That’s what I want to do but I don’t think I can do it on my ipod. It’s a few years old. Not knowing what song is next is the best. Oh, and another new one I’m going to add – “Boys Don’t Cry” by the Cure. I heard it the other day in the car and think it will be good.
goshery says
I think you really need some Springsteen on your playlist . . . any song will do! I just got an ipod (you were my inspiration) so I don’t have any play lists yet, but I’m adding all of my cd’s to get me started . . . and that includes 5 Springsteen cd’s and Elton John’s greatest hits. Thanks to everyone for sharing your ideas!
joanne smith (spagirl) says
oh cathy, thanks so much for sharing your mixes! i love running to MJ too!! some songs just for fun… “just a friend” … it just makes me laugh, i think of the heineken commercial in the cab & it’s upbeat! oohlala by goldfrapp… and i like suddenly i see by kt tunstall… just to name a few! i’ll definitely be adding your list to get me up and … well, running again!! thank you… and congrats on your success! 🙂
Jayne Groenewold says
Might I suggest a bit of Steve Miller Band. Yes, a bit old school, however some of those songs are so great to pace to. When I started running on my treadmill I used my old cassette and would fast forward through the slow songs. Oh yeah. Keep on a rockin’ it baby!
Julie says
I have a very long playlist of Queen tunes which I named, “The Workout Queen.” That can name either the playlist or me, depending on how I feel. It’s all I can do to stop myself from strutting around like Freddie Mercury as I run.
briohny says
Untouched by the Veronicas (Australian girl power), Good Luck by Basement Jaxx, Stop the Rock by Apollo 440 are all excellent for that boost you sometimes need to help you through. My favourite stretching song is Picture by Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow. Love seeing the common songs between our playlists… means we are all running to the same tune 🙂
Carol.in.Canada says
Thanks! July 30th is a happy day! OK. One more song, You’re Gonna Go Far Kid by The Offspring, definitely puts some movement in my jog!
cathy says
Hey Leah, glad you found me! : )
I was fortunate enough to visit NZ on a scrapbooking thing in 2006 and to this day, my whole family still wants to move there and stay for a year! (And stalk Neil Finn, of course, who is one of my ALL TIME favorite musicians. In fact, im going to see him and the gang at the end of the month!)
You should definitely get the iPod+Nike. I find it so fun and motivating! Cheers to you and by all means, stop back by!
cathy says
I HAVE that song by Stipe and Merchant. Great, great version! You have great taste down in NZ!
cathy says
i have never shuffled. Im so not a shuffler, however, tomorrow, im going to figure it out!
love that cure song, too!
cathy says
BRUCE! Okay, i should pick something. OH, songs from Nebraska might make good cool down end of run songs!
cathy says
oh man, i had a steve miller sing off with a friend recently on iChat. TOO fun. : ) I AM old school!
cathy says
oh thats a great idea. Love me some Freddie!
Sammie says
I’m getting some great ideas from your post and all the comments! Hard rock really gets me going, so Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave are some of my favorites.
cathy says
Bulls on Parade would be good, huh? Must add that in.
Wendy says
I love to read running playlists so thank you for this post! I’ve enjoyed tabbing back and forth between iTunes and your post as I’ve read from your commenters. Here are some of my running favorites.
What is Love by Haddaway
Higher Ground by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Apache Rocks the Bottom by Scooter
Can’t Touch It by Ricki-Lee
Rock this Party by Bob Sinclair
Go Daddy-O by Tod Miner
This is your night by Amber
Cupid Shuffle by Cupid
Tambourine by Eve
You are awesome. Thanks again for keeping it real with us.
Julie says
Hey Runner Girl – I am inspired by you every day. I too have taken up running and, get this, am doing 15 miles this weekend! Yes I am afraid. But I have a playlist 8 hours long to get me thru. Anyway, since you inspire me, i thought i’d share some of my workout tunes. We have somewhat different musical tastes, as it is mandatory that my songs be uptempo dance beats. And the holy grail are songs that have that PLUS inspiring lyrics. Here are some of my best:
Search for the Hero – M People (lead singer is Heather Small – of “Proud”, which I also recommend.)
Anything’s Possible – Jonny Lang (I tear up every time, can’t help it.)
Bridge Over Troubled Water (love to infinity radio mix) – Hannah Jones
It’s Your Life – Francesca Battistelli
Get Lifted (indian summer) (Thomas Gold Remix) from Big Love Volume 2 – Huggy & Dean Newton feat. Sam Obernik
Wonderful – Gary Go
Stamp Your Feet – Donna Summer (“what breaks the weak just makes you strong”)
Push Push – Kat Deluna feat Akon
And then, just to bring it home, I like to cool down to:
Stevie Wonder’s Hold On To Your Dream
Superwoman by Alicia Keys
I Can Be by Taio Cruz
Dare you not to be inspired! Am looking forward to reading a post from you someday about your half marathon!
cathy says
15? Holy moly. You must be training for a marathon, yes?
I love that you have Jonny Lang. hes a local boy you know… : )
kristal says
Stacy Julian has a Music tab on her site that has some jogging tunes. Check it out! 🙂 I am loving reading all of the recommendations.
Shannon says
Rhianna’s “Please Don’t Stop the Music” always keeps me going even when I want to quit! And I always want to quit! I love that you’ve got Billy Joel’s “Only the Good Die Young” on your playlist. That’s inspirational!
Lowly says
Radiohead is on every one of my playlists. So are Iron and Wine and Queen. And Incubus. And Foo fighters. And Ingrid Michaelson. But if you want some music to work out to that is butt kicking, try Audiovent. They only made one album, and the lead singer is the little brother of Incubus’ Brandon Boyd. They are AWEsome. I used their music for a soccer slideshow for my son’s soccer banquet. It’s great moving music. They’re one of my all-time faves, and definitely keeps me moving.
cathy says
I LOVE THIS SONG TOO! The Billy Joel. I JUST heard it at the end of my run. A perfect slowdown beat. : )
cathy says
i have never heard of Audiovent. Will check it!
Kate Teague says
I love to listen to the Killers when I run- love love love!! Dustland Firytale is great, Somebody Told Me, Mr, Brightside. sometimes I just set my ipod to shuffle on the Killers albums and workout accordingly – faster slower etc…
Kirsty says
Green Day – makes me just run. Also, She’s so Lovely by Scouting for girls, in fact most of their songs make me run and smile at the same time. There is a compilation on itunes called 101 Running Songs which is brill, but not sure if available to you all in the states as I am in the UK??? And thanks Cathy – you really do inspire and encourage!!!
Dawn says
Oh yeah… thought of another one today when it came on in the car. Something Good by Utah Saints – if you like Kate Bush and a little bit a techno thrown in – AWESOME! Hugs.
Tina says
love offspring for running!!
Jenny B. says
I used to do the Nordic Trac in high school, and had a whole mix of songs from my dad’s Eric Clapton – Crossroads boxed set that I listened to during my 45-min workout. I don’t remember all the songs I had on my tape, but White Room and Layla (original version) stand out. I always had Layla last. It’s long and winds down very nicely. 🙂
Cindy says
Running, biking AND swimming … sounds to me like you might one day try a triathlon!! WTG Cathy! Thanks for writing about this. You are inspiring.
Ashley S. says
Thanks for sharing this. I am actually building a workout play list so this is perfect.
cathy says
oh, i love Layla. Such a great old song!
Marcia says
Thanks for sharing – and as I call it – paying it forward. I haven’t tried your mixes yet because I still don’t have an ipod, but I passed them (and your blog) onto my friend, along with the BadAss Fitness blog you once shared. I keep both of your blogs on my Bloglines feed and save the posts I really like. You continue to inspire me in many ways. Thanks!
cathy says
I love that Badass Fitness blog! Jenn Bertschs story is the one that REALLY motivated me last January to get moving!
Terri says
I realize this is an old post but I wanted to throw out two more songs that I haven’t seen listed:
“We Run” by Sugarland (channel your country girl)
and a great post workout/cool down song is “Beautiful” by MercyMe (love the message of this song).
cathy says
Old post, but I always get the comments! : ) Will have to check them out!