Almost everyone is hopping into the running trend lately.
Some do it for the healthy clout, some want to meet new friends or a potential jowa in running clubs, and others want to focus on their health to finally accomplish that New Year’s resolution from a couple of years ago. Hey, we listen and we don’t judge.
But whatever your reasons and whatever you’re running from, nothing beats having good music during your cardio sessions. Music becomes your friend when you need that motivation and energy to get those steps in. Running is even more fun when you’re blasting your favorite tunes to hype yourself up and keep going.
When you’re on a solo run, the lyrics and instrumentals of the track you’re listening to become your personal trainer, pushing you to keep going and stay focused. “All you need is one killer track,” as Baby Driver puts it — but why stop at one? Billboard Philippines has curated 15 songs from the realms of pop, techno, hip-hop, rock, and everything in between that are certified mood boosters to keep you fueled with energy for your next run.
“Challengers: Match Point” – Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross
To this day, we stand by our opinion that the soundtrack of Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers was undeservingly snubbed at the Academy Awards.
“Challengers: Match Point” playing in one of 2024’s best scenes on film is the definition of composers Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross locking in. The track captures the pulsating energy of the specific scene this plays in, so you’re in for some techno heaven. When the track hits its highest point, it does not lose its rhythm from there on out. What makes it a great addition to a running playlist is how it keeps you hyped up while also making you think about the scene that perfectly defines the phrase “locked in.”
“Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” – Daft Punk
Let’s take a trip down memory lane.
Casual Daft Punk listeners may share their affinity for the electronic duo with “Get Lucky” featuring Pharrell Williams, but “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” is an electrifying addition to your running playlist. The robotic visuals make it seem like you’re driven by routine, which in turn becomes a powerful motivation to… well, work it harder, better, faster, and stronger.
“Haegum” – Agust D
Here’s for the K-pop stans out there. “Haegum” by Agust D, also known as Suga of BTS, showcases the South Korean rapper’s hip-hop and rap prowess. It’s a worthy track to play if you’re losing motivation and thinking about calling it quits. But hey, keep going. To get you in the right mindset, the track explores themes of freedom and liberation.
“Perfect (Exceeder)” – Mason, Princess Superstar
“One, two, three, four. Let me hear you scream if you want some more.”
“Perfect (Exceeder)” is a mashup of Dutch musician Mason’s 2006 instrumental dance track “Exceeder” and American rapper Princess Superstar’s “Perfect”. We can say it’s perfect to inspire you to push yourself even more. The track featured in the 2023 film Saltburn screams club-like intensity and energy. Whether you’re sprinting, pacing, or getting through that final stretch, this track keeps you from slowing down.
“squabble up” – Kendrick Lamar
“squabble up” by Kendrick Lamar is overflowing with the American rapper’s razor-sharp delivery, while the instrumentals create a sense of urgency — like you’re fleeing from the cops in Grand Theft Auto with a five-star wanted level. The intro kicks into high gear, instantly catapulting you into your run — turning it into a chase. The chase in question? Pushing yourself to go the extra mile beyond your previous run.
“Rush” – Troye Sivan
Feel the rush and be addicted to the thrills of Troye Sivan’s opening track of his third studio album, Something to Give Each Other.
“Rush” is is a queer twink anthem that can also be enjoyed by anyone looking for something quick and effective. The house-pop track fits right in with the Australian singer’s signature sound but also brings an extra burst of electrifying energy. The beat and production is hella infectious, making it one of Sivan’s most energetic songs in his arsenal. Get in the zone and feel the rush.
“GUMMY” – BROCKHAMPTON
“GUMMY” by American hip-hop boy band BROCKHAMPTON stays in rhythm and tempo with its 80 BPM, maintaining a steady momentum that also feels a bit laid-back. As you start picking up your pace, each step feels a bit easier and lighter. The variety in the verses and chorus makes the track dynamic and your run not feel stagnant.
“Pump It Up” – Endor
Take care of yourself! If you’ve seen The Substance — one of 2024’s best horror films and one of the best films of the year in general — you know exactly what we mean. Pumping it up with Sue is all the motivation you need to push your limits and live up to your potential. Go get those steps in and crush your daily goal!
“212” – Azealia Banks, Lazy Jay
This song can be the answer to what you should add to your on-repeat.
“212” by American rapper Azealia Banks and featuring Belgian disc jockey Lazy Jay, also known as Jef Martens, pulls you into a hypnotic trance when you’re ready to test your limits and push past your boundaries. Hip house or house rap may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the track is undeniably worthy of mulitple listens on your run.
“Alter Ego” – Doechii with JT
The GRAMMY-winning American rapper and singer teams up with JT of the hip-hop duo City Girls a trip back to ’90s club music that blends with hip-house. It also resembles a bit of the sound of Azealia Banks, so if you’re currently in this type of vibe, “Alter Ego” is a banger to run to.
“Anti-Fragile” – LE SSERAFIM
K-pop may be not be your thing but “ANTIFRAGILE” by South Korean girl group LE SSERAFIM is is the perfect antidote to laziness and boredom. The opening hook captures the overall track’s rhythmic energy, making it just as satisfying to listen to as it is to go beyond what you were aiming for in your run.
“Countdown” – Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s “Countdown” is a track that gets you to the finish line. It’s a track that powers you through any obstacle, driven by layered horns and a drumline that propels you forward. Queen Bey’s rapid-fire delivery brings all the fierce and motivation.
Moreover, the lyrics reinforce the confidence you strive for. You can never go wrong with adding a Beyoncé track to your playlist.
“December 2 Chapter VII” – Taken by Cars
Filipino indie rock band Taken by Cars’ “December 2 Chapter VII” sounds like it plays during the end credits of a coming-of-age film. Well, maybe it works if you’re wrapping up your evening jog and about to hit the sack in a couple of hours — or grabbing that much-deserved midnight snack in Angel’s Burger. The song is heavy in production, but it doesn’t compromise its cohesion. It stays grounded, making it perfect for a final boost of energy before calling it a day.
“All My Friends” – LCD Soundsystem
For The 1975 fans out there, the album opener of Being Funny in a Foreign Language takes heavy inspiration from American rock band LCD Soundsystem’s ‘All My Friends.’ Rightfully so — the piano loop, which feels never-ending, makes you want to drop everything on the floor and get going. The near-eight-minute track is perfect for a quick run and getting the kicks in if you’re in a bit of a running slump lately.
“Gasoline” – The Weekend
Of course, there’s gotta be a catchy Weeknd song on here. The second track of the chart-topper’s fifth studio album, Dawn FM, sets the perfect mood for anything fitness. Think of it as a song you’d hear in a club or inside The Penguin’s Iceberg Lounge from The Batman.
The track also served as the official theme song of WWE’s WrestleMania XL. Finishing your run feels as satisfying as WWE superstar Cody Rhodes finishing his story and finally capturing the ultimate prize — the Undisputed WWE Championship.