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The 100 Best Hip-hop Workout Songs Ever (New Releases & Throwbacks)

100 Best Hip-hop Workout Songs Ever

You’re here because you’re looking for the BEST heart-pumping, soul-rattling hip-hop workout songs to take your exercise to the next level. I get it. The top hip-hop workout songs take my routine from good to AH-MAY-ZING!! This is an extensive list with 100 of my all-time favorite hip-hop songs to use for indoor cycling, running, weightlifting, dancing, and pretty much any other cardio or strength training you can think of. This list has a ton of Ludacris, Eminem, 50 Cent, Pitbull, Tone Loc, The Black Eyed Peas, and more. Hope you find what you’re looking for and have an incredible workout!

If you’d like to check out a ready-for-you indoor cycling routine exclusively from hip-hop songs, you can check out my 80s hip-hop indoor cycling routine or my 90s hip-hop indoor cycling routine.

I put all of the below songs into a YouTube playlist for easy listening while you workout. You can listen here:

Enjoy!

“Up”, Cardi B, Album: Invasion of Privacy, Release Year: 2021, Explicit: Yes

Cardi B’s “Up” is a high-energy anthem that will get your heart racing and your body moving during any workout. With its upbeat tempo, hard-hitting bass, and Cardi B’s unapologetically bold lyrics, this track is the perfect hip-hop workout song when you need to power through a tough set or get that extra push to finish your run. Cardi’s confidence and charisma shine through every verse, inspiring you to channel your inner strength and keep going no matter what. Whether you’re lifting heavy or hitting the treadmill, “Up” delivers that burst of motivation that makes every rep feel like a victory.

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Body, Megan Thee Stallion, Album: Good News, Release Year: 2020, Explicit: Yes

Megan Thee Stallion’s “Body” is a great workout song if you need a dose of confidence and drive. With its infectious beat and self-assured lyrics, it’s perfect for those moments when you want to feel unstoppable. The track’s hypnotic flow, paired with Megan’s powerful delivery, is ideal for setting the tone during high-intensity exercises like squats, sprints, or HIIT workouts. The catchy hook, “Body-ody-ody,” adds an element of fun, making it easy to lose yourself in the rhythm while pushing your limits. If you want a song that motivates you to keep going and feel fierce, this is the one.

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It’s Tricky, Run-D.M.C., Album: Raising Hell, Release Year: 1986, Explicit: No

With its iconic beat and irresistible energy, “It’s Tricky” is an evergreen classic that will elevate any workout playlist. The infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics will keep your body moving while also putting a smile on your face. Whether you’re in the middle of a cardio session or powering through a circuit, the bouncy tempo and throwback vibes keep you energized. The iconic chorus gives you that extra burst of motivation to stay in the groove, and the upbeat, feel-good nature of the track is sure to boost your mood as you hit new personal records.

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Watch Me, Silento, Album: Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae), Release Year: 2015, Explicit: No

“Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)” is the ultimate fun, high-energy hip-hop workout song that brings an element of playfulness to your workout. While it’s an easy choice for dance-inspired exercises, its catchy beat and repetitive hook also make it perfect for steady-paced activities like jogging or cycling. The upbeat rhythm encourages you to keep moving, and the memorable dance moves in the song give you something to mentally latch onto during your session. Whether you’re working out at the gym or on a run, this track is guaranteed to make the time fly by.

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My House, Flo Rida, Album: My House, Release Year: 2015, Explicit: No

With its infectious party vibe and feel-good lyrics, Flo Rida’s “My House” is the perfect song to get you in the zone for any workout. The upbeat tempo makes it an ideal track for a variety of exercises, from weight training to cycling. The anthem-like quality of the song creates a sense of empowerment, reminding you that you own the space you’re in, whether it’s the gym or the running trail. Its hook, “Welcome to my house,” has an undeniable energy that will have you pushing through the toughest sets with ease.

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In Da Club, 50 Cent, Album: Get Rich or Die Tryin’, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

“In Da Club” is a quintessential workout anthem, offering the perfect blend of swagger and energy to fuel your exercise session. Its slow yet steady beat makes it ideal for activities that require focus, like lifting or cycling, while 50 Cent’s smooth delivery keeps you locked in. The infectious hook and catchy beat will keep your energy levels high and your pace steady. Every time the chorus drops, you’ll feel that extra jolt of motivation to power through, making it a great song to keep you moving when you start to feel the burn.

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Jump, Kris Kross, Album: Totally Krossed Out, Release Year: 1992, Explicit: No

If you’re looking for an upbeat, fun hip-hop workout song, Kris Kross’ “Jump” is the perfect choice. The energetic beat and bouncy rhythm make it ideal for cardio or any exercise that involves jumping, like box jumps or burpees. The track’s feel-good vibes and the catchy “Jump, jump” hook will have you bouncing through your sets and pushing yourself to work harder. Its lighthearted yet high-energy nature is perfect for keeping your momentum going, helping you power through even the toughest routines with a smile.

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Switch, Will Smith, Album: Lost and Found, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: No

Will Smith’s “Switch” is a feel-good track with an infectious groove, making it a great addition to any workout playlist. The upbeat rhythm and playful lyrics make it perfect for high-energy activities like cardio or dancing. The track’s flow is smooth yet impactful, and Will Smith’s trademark charm brings a fun vibe to your routine. As the beat picks up, you’ll feel inspired to step up your intensity and switch up your pace, whether you’re running, cycling, or lifting. It’s a track that makes working out feel less like a chore and more like a celebration.

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Fancy, Iggy Azalea, Charli XCX, Album: The New Classic, Release Year: 2014, Explicit: Yes

“Fancy” is the ultimate confidence anthem, making it the perfect companion to a power workout. The song’s catchy beat and Iggy Azalea’s fierce lyrics will make you feel unstoppable during your sweat session. Whether you’re running, lifting, or doing HIIT, the driving rhythm keeps you motivated and moving at full speed. Charli XCX’s catchy chorus adds an extra layer of fun, making it feel like you’re in a music video while you work up a sweat. If you need that extra confidence boost to push through a tough workout, “Fancy” has got you covered.

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Super Bass, Nicki Minaj, Album: Pink Friday, Release Year: 2011, Explicit: Yes

Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass” is an energetic, infectious track that’s perfect for powering through any workout. Its upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and Nicki’s vibrant flow create an electric atmosphere that can get you through even the toughest of sessions. Whether you’re doing cardio, lifting, or trying to crush your personal best, the song’s fast pace and confidence-boosting lyrics will fuel your determination. The beat is fast enough to keep you moving quickly but steady enough to keep you focused, while the chorus gives you a rush of energy when you need it most.

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Right Round, Flo Rida, Album: R.O.O.T.S., Release Year: 2009, Explicit: Yes

Flo Rida’s “Right Round” is a perfect hip-hop workout song, driven by an irresistible beat and high-energy flow that will keep you moving from start to finish. Its danceable rhythm and catchy chorus make it ideal for cardio sessions, whether you’re running, cycling, or jumping rope. The song’s upbeat tempo and club-ready vibe will keep your energy levels high, making it easier to push through that last mile or set. Plus, the motivational vibe of the lyrics, with themes of moving forward and having fun, adds extra fuel to your workout. It’s the kind of track that turns a regular workout into a party.

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Hall of Fame, The Script, will.i.am, Album: #3, Release Year: 2012, Explicit: No

If you’re looking for a song that inspires you to aim for greatness, “Hall of Fame” is a perfect addition to your workout playlist. With its powerful lyrics and anthemic vibe, this track motivates you to keep going, no matter how tough your workout gets. The combination of The Script’s uplifting melody and will.i.am’s energizing beat creates an empowering atmosphere, making it perfect for moments when you need that extra push. Whether you’re lifting, running, or hitting a high-intensity circuit, the song’s message of perseverance and success will keep you focused and motivated to achieve your goals.

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Timber, Pitbull, Kesha, Album: Meltdown, Release Year: 2013, Explicit: No

“Timber” brings the perfect mix of upbeat energy and fun vibes, making it an ideal track for any workout session. The infectious dance beat and catchy chorus from Kesha will keep you moving during cardio or any other high-intensity activity. Pitbull’s signature hype and energy elevate the track, making it feel like a celebration every time the beat drops. Its playful vibe is great for those moments when you want to push through with a smile on your face, adding that extra level of excitement to your sweat session.

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Numb/Encore, Jay-Z, Linkin Park, Album: Collision Course, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

A unique blend of hip-hop and rock, “Numb/Encore” is the perfect track to ignite your workout with its powerful rhythm and intense energy. The song’s high tempo and the fusion of Jay-Z’s commanding rap verses with Linkin Park’s electrifying guitars create an adrenaline-pumping atmosphere. Whether you’re lifting weights, doing sprints, or tackling an intense HIIT workout, this collaboration provides that perfect balance of grit and power. The lyrics about pushing past limits and overcoming struggles align perfectly with the mental toughness you need to finish strong during any workout.

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Hate It or Love It, The Game, 50 Cent, Album: The Documentary, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

“Hate It or Love It” is an anthem of perseverance and success, making it an excellent addition to your hip-hop workout playlist. The track’s smooth yet hard-hitting beat, combined with The Game and 50 Cent’s confident verses, provides the ideal backdrop for pushing through challenging sets. The motivational lyrics about overcoming obstacles and staying focused will help you power through when fatigue starts to set in. Whether you’re lifting, running, or doing circuits, this track will fuel your determination and remind you to stay relentless in your pursuit of goals.

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Don’t Stop the Party, Pitbull, TJR, Album: Global Warming, Release Year: 2012, Explicit: Yes

Pitbull’s “Don’t Stop the Party” is a non-stop energy booster, perfect for powering through any workout. The track is high-energy and filled with feel-good vibes, making it ideal for cardio, dancing, or any activity that needs an extra push. Pitbull’s upbeat style combined with TJR’s infectious beats creates an electrifying atmosphere that keeps you moving. The song’s celebratory vibe adds an extra layer of fun, turning your workout into a party, ensuring you stay motivated, energized, and ready to tackle even the most intense sets with enthusiasm.

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(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!), Beastie Boys, Album: Licensed to Ill, Release Year: 1986, Explicit: Yes

An iconic track that’s as rebellious as it is energizing, the Beastie Boys’ “Fight For Your Right” is perfect for channeling raw energy and defiance during your workout. The intense rock-rap fusion combined with the defiant “fight for your right” chorus is ideal for when you need to push past physical fatigue. Whether you’re lifting heavy or sprinting on a treadmill, the track’s unapologetic attitude keeps you focused and gives you that “no excuses” mentality to keep going. It’s a perfect throwback song for when you need to tap into your inner fighter.

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Young, Wild & Free, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Bruno Mars, Album: Mac & Devin Go to High School, Release Year: 2011, Explicit: Yes

“Young, Wild & Free” is a carefree, high-energy track that adds fun and motivation to any workout. The chill yet upbeat vibe created by Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, and Bruno Mars is perfect for those moments when you need to relax into your workout and enjoy the rhythm. Whether you’re warming up, cooling down, or getting into a steady rhythm on a bike or treadmill, this song’s carefree lyrics and catchy melody create a feel-good atmosphere that makes the time fly by while you stay focused and positive.

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Gold Digger, Kanye West, Jamie Foxx, Album: Late Registration, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

Kanye West’s “Gold Digger” is a bold and infectious hip-hop song that brings high energy to any workout. The upbeat tempo and catchy hook make it perfect for cardio, especially when you need a boost of energy to push through the finish line. Kanye’s clever wordplay and the lively production make this track a classic for any playlist. Whether you’re hitting the weights or running a race, the rhythmic flow and catchy beats will keep you locked in and moving, helping you power through your workout with confidence and style.

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Candy Shop, 50 Cent, Olivia, Album: The Massacre, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

“Candy Shop” is a smooth, seductive anthem with a slow but steady beat that’s perfect for getting into a groove during your workout. The catchy chorus and 50 Cent’s laid-back yet confident delivery make it ideal for more controlled, focused exercises, such as lifting or yoga. The track’s rhythm makes it easy to fall into a steady pace, allowing you to focus on your form while keeping your energy up. It’s a perfect balance of cool and intensity, providing the soundtrack for moments when you need to stay focused and powerful.

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Stand Up, Ludacris, Shawnna, Album: Chicken-n-Beer, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

Ludacris’ “Stand Up” is a perfect hip-hop workout song for when you need to dig deep and find the energy to power through. The song’s hard-hitting beat and Ludacris’ energetic delivery will help you push through tough sets and challenging workouts. The hook, “When I move, you move,” is especially motivating, encouraging you to stay in rhythm and keep going. Whether you’re lifting, sprinting, or doing HIIT, the track’s intensity and rhythm will keep your adrenaline high, making it a great choice to elevate any training session.

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Hey Mama, The Black Eyed Peas, Album: Elephunk, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

With its infectious beats and feel-good lyrics, “Hey Mama” by The Black Eyed Peas is a perfect addition to your workout playlist. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook make it ideal for cardio and dancing, while the positive energy keeps your spirits high throughout your session. The song’s mix of electronic beats and rhythmic flow is sure to make any workout feel more like a celebration, making it easier to power through even the toughest exercises. If you need a track to keep the energy flowing and the vibe fun, “Hey Mama” has you covered.

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Pump It, The Black Eyed Peas, Album: Monkey Business, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

“Pump It” is the ultimate high-energy anthem, perfect for fueling your workout. Its rapid-fire beats and intense rhythm instantly elevate your heart rate, pushing you to power through every set. The iconic riff, inspired by Dick Dale’s “Misirlou,” adds a cinematic, adrenaline-pumping edge that keeps you in the zone. Whether you’re lifting weights, running, or crushing a HIIT session, the infectious “pump it up” hook is guaranteed to motivate and keep you going at full speed. This track is a sonic blast of energy that feels like a personal hype squad.

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Walk This Way, Run DMC, Aerosmith, Album: Raising Hell, Release Year: 1986, Explicit: Yes

A seamless fusion of rock and hip-hop, “Walk This Way” is a timeless workout classic. With Aerosmith’s electrifying guitar riffs and Run-D.M.C.’s sharp rhymes, the song effortlessly blends intensity with style. The chorus is a shot of adrenaline, while the combination of Aerosmith’s swagger and Run-D.M.C.’s flow makes it a perfect soundtrack for high-energy exercises. Whether you’re pushing through leg day or hitting the treadmill, the combination of iconic rock beats and fast-paced rap will keep your energy high and your focus razor-sharp.

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Bring Em Out, T.I., Album: Urban Legend, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

T.I.’s “Bring Em Out” is a masterclass in motivation, with a beat that demands your attention. The track’s deep, hard-hitting bass and powerful brass riffs create a soundtrack that’s all about confidence and focus. T.I.’s commanding presence on the mic encourages you to “bring out” your best self, making it a go-to for any intense workout. Whether you’re hitting the gym or preparing for a sprint, this track’s upbeat tempo and steady rhythm will propel you to push harder, faster, and further.

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Let’s Get It Started, Black Eyed Peas, Album: Elephunk, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

With its infectious beat and hyped-up vibe, “Let’s Get It Started” is a workout essential. The Black Eyed Peas capture the essence of go-hard, no-holds-barred motivation with their blend of electronic pop and hip-hop influences. The song’s fast tempo and energizing lyrics create the perfect soundtrack for any physical activity, whether you’re running, cycling, or tackling a full-body workout. It’s the kind of track that makes you feel unstoppable, as if you’re just getting started and ready to conquer anything.

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Jump Around, House of Pain, Album: House of Pain, Release Year: 1992, Explicit: Yes

“Jump Around” is a legendary party track that doubles as a powerful workout song. The driving beat and contagious chorus practically demand that you get on your feet and start moving. With its rapid-fire pace and high-energy lyrics, it’s the perfect song to get your adrenaline pumping, whether you’re pushing through burpees, box jumps, or hitting the heavy bag. The raw energy of the track will keep your heart rate up and your focus laser-sharp, ensuring you stay engaged and motivated throughout your entire workout.

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Boom Boom Pow, The Black Eyed Peas, Album: The E.N.D., Release Year: 2009, Explicit: Yes

“Boom Boom Pow” is an electronic powerhouse that feels tailor-made for high-intensity workouts. The track’s futuristic beats, glitchy effects, and fast tempo will electrify your energy, while the Black Eyed Peas’ catchy hook keeps you in motion. With its pulsing bass and in-your-face chorus, this song is the perfect soundtrack for pushing limits. Whether you’re smashing through a set of squats or running intervals, the infectious beat will keep you moving, ensuring that you hit your fitness goals with style and power.

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Dance (A$$), Big Sean, Nicki Minaj, Album: Finally Famous, Release Year: 2011, Explicit: Yes

“Dance (A$$)” is the ultimate hip-hop workout song to get your heart pumping and your body moving. Big Sean’s infectious flow combined with Nicki Minaj’s punchy verse makes this a high-energy workout song that’ll have you powering through your reps. The bass-heavy beat, coupled with playful lyrics, injects fun into even the toughest workouts. This song is all about confidence and energy, making it perfect for dance routines, cardio, or weightlifting sessions where you need to bring the heat.

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Crank That (Soulja Boy), Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em, Album: souljaboytellem.com, Release Year: 2007, Explicit: Yes

“Crank That (Soulja Boy)” is a party anthem that doubles as a workout motivator. The track’s simple, catchy beat and shout-out-worthy lyrics create an atmosphere that’s perfect for pushing your limits. Whether you’re doing fast-paced cardio or lifting weights, Soulja Boy’s infectious energy will keep you moving. The song’s repetitive hooks and rhythmic flow make it easy to get into the groove, and the high tempo ensures you’re always on the move, cranking out those extra reps with ease.

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Whistle, Flo Rida, Album: Wild Ones, Release Year: 2012, Explicit: Yes

“Whistle” is a feel-good track with a catchy melody that’ll help you breeze through any workout. Flo Rida’s smooth flow, combined with the infectious whistling hook, creates a fun yet motivating atmosphere. The song’s easy-going yet upbeat vibe is perfect for cardio sessions, stretching, or lighter workouts where you need a little extra groove to keep you going. The track’s laid-back energy allows you to stay in rhythm while keeping your pace consistent, making it a versatile and uplifting addition to any playlist.

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Boom! Shake the Room, DJ Jazzy Jeff, The Fresh Prince, Album: Code Red, Release Year: 1993, Explicit: No

“Boom! Shake the Room” is an absolute classic that brings retro energy to your workout playlist. The track’s bouncy beats, upbeat tempo, and charismatic flow from DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince bring a fun, old-school vibe to any fitness routine. Whether you’re jumping rope, running, or doing circuit training, this song’s infectious energy will keep you moving. With its crowd-pumping chorus and funky beats, it’s a perfect motivator when you need a little nostalgia to push through your workout.

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Hold On, We’re Going Home, Drake, Majic Jordan, Album: Nothing Was the Same, Release Year: 2013, Explicit: No

Drake’s smooth, atmospheric track “Hold On, We’re Going Home” is a surprising but effective choice for a workout playlist. The mellow vibe and sensual flow create a balance between intensity and focus, helping you power through a slower-paced workout like yoga, stretching, or a cool-down. The song’s soothing yet upbeat melody allows for a relaxed, steady pace while maintaining an undercurrent of momentum. For those who prefer a less aggressive but still energizing vibe, this track adds the perfect calm confidence to your fitness journey.

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Lose Control, Missy Elliott, Ciara, Fatman Scoop, Album: The Cookbook, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

“Lose Control” is a high-octane, infectious hip-hop workout song that pushes you to give everything you’ve got during a workout. With Missy Elliott’s signature futuristic production, Ciara’s smooth yet fierce vocals, and Fatman Scoop’s hyped-up, crowd-pumping shoutouts, the song delivers the perfect balance of energy, swagger, and excitement. The relentless beat and rapid tempo keep you moving non-stop, making it ideal for intense cardio, HIIT, or dance-based workouts. Whether you’re hitting the gym or sweating it out on the dance floor, this track ensures you won’t hold back.

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Down On Me, Jeremih, 50 Cent, Album: All About You, Release Year: 2010, Explicit: Yes

“Down On Me” blends smooth R&B with a pulsing beat that makes it a surprising yet effective workout track. The laid-back vibe mixed with 50 Cent’s gritty verses creates a relaxed but steady rhythm that works perfectly for steady-state cardio or resistance training. Jeremih’s mellow vocals paired with a catchy hook build a groove that allows you to stay focused while pushing through your reps. It’s the perfect choice when you want something a bit more chill yet still motivating enough to keep your pace up.

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Hot in Herre, Nelly, Album: Nellyville, Release Year: 2002, Explicit: Yes

“Hot in Herre” is a workout staple with its upbeat tempo, catchy hook, and Nelly’s smooth flow. The track’s infectious energy and playful vibe bring an element of fun to any exercise routine. Whether you’re running, cycling, or crushing a circuit workout, the song’s rhythmic bounce and catchy chorus keep you moving. The track’s “take off your clothes” line is a playful cue to strip away distractions and focus solely on the task at hand—getting that workout in and feeling confident while doing it.

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Time of Our Lives, Pitbull, Ne-Yo, Album: Globalization, Release Year: 2014, Explicit: No

Pitbull and Ne-Yo’s “Time of Our Lives” is the perfect anthem for a workout where you want to feel like you’re living in the moment. The upbeat tempo, positive lyrics, and infectious rhythm make this track ideal for anything from treadmill sprints to cycling classes. Pitbull’s signature party vibe combined with Ne-Yo’s smooth, celebratory vocals make you feel like you’re having the time of your life, even if you’re pushing through a tough set. It’s all about seizing the moment and giving it your all, no matter the workout.

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Low, Flo Rida, T-Pain, Album: Mail on Sunday, Release Year: 2007, Explicit: Yes

“Low” has one of the most instantly recognizable hooks in hip-hop, and it’s a perfect fit for any workout. With Flo Rida’s laid-back delivery and T-Pain’s signature autotuned hooks, the song’s hypnotic rhythm and bass-heavy beat give you a reason to keep moving. Whether you’re hitting the squat rack or doing leg presses, the track’s steady pulse keeps you in a groove, helping you power through your workout. The track’s high-energy feel combined with catchy lyrics make it a classic gym anthem for staying pumped and engaged.

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Remember the Name, Fort Minor, Album: The Rising Tied, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

“Remember the Name” is a powerhouse track that exudes confidence and determination—just what you need when tackling a tough workout. With Mike Shinoda’s rapping and the song’s driving, anthemic beat, it’s impossible not to feel empowered. The song’s focus on personal achievement and perseverance makes it ideal for weightlifting, boxing, or intense HIIT routines, where every second counts. The track’s compelling lyrics and motivating hook remind you to dig deep, push through, and make your mark, making it the perfect soundtrack for those pushing their limits.

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Krazy, Pitbull, Lil Jon, Album: Rebelution, Release Year: 2009, Explicit: No

“Krazy” brings a crazy amount of energy to any workout. The fast-paced, high-energy beats combined with Pitbull’s infectious energy and Lil Jon’s hyped-up ad-libs get your heart racing and adrenaline flowing. The track’s hard-hitting bass and relentless tempo are perfect for anything that requires explosive power—think sprints, box jumps, or heavy lifting. It’s all about embracing the intensity, and with Pitbull and Lil Jon’s larger-than-life energy, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you power through your workout.

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Freek-a-leek, Petey Pablo, Album: Still Writing in My Diary: 2nd Entry, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

“Freek-a-Leek” is a high-energy hip-hop workout song that’s perfect for getting into the zone. With Petey Pablo’s playful yet commanding flow and the track’s infectious beat, it’s a party anthem with a workout twist. The rhythmic, upbeat tempo drives your pace, while the catchy hooks keep you locked into the movement. Whether you’re doing cardio or working through full-body exercises, the song’s upbeat vibe keeps your spirits high and your body in motion. It’s all about fun and intensity with this one, making every rep feel like a celebration.

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We Fly High, Jim Jones, Album; DJ Drama & Jim Jones: The Seven Day Theory, Release Year: 2006, Explicit: No

“We Fly High” is all about confidence, and that’s exactly the kind of mindset you need when working out. With its iconic “Ballin’!” chant and Jim Jones’ commanding flow, the track injects a sense of swagger and motivation that pushes you to hit your goals. The beat is hard-hitting yet steady, making it ideal for a variety of workouts, from heavy lifting to interval sprints. The song’s triumphant vibe encourages you to give it your all and own every movement, making it perfect for those who like to train with a bit of attitude.

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How We Do, The Game, 50 Cent, Album: The Documentary, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

The Game and 50 Cent’s “How We Do” delivers relentless energy and a beat that demands attention, making it an ideal workout anthem. The song’s hard-hitting, aggressive vibe and gritty lyrics inspire you to take your workout to the next level. Whether you’re pushing through a brutal circuit or going hard on the treadmill, the combination of The Game’s confident delivery and 50 Cent’s raw energy gives you the mental boost to power through your most challenging sets. It’s all about focusing on the grind and doing it with style.

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Give It to Me, Timbaland, Nelly Furtado, Justin Timberlake, Album: Shock Value, Release Year: 2007, Explicit: Yes

“Give It to Me” is a rhythmic, danceable track that’s perfect for maintaining a steady pace through any workout. With Timbaland’s signature production, Nelly Furtado’s sultry vocals, and Justin Timberlake’s smooth delivery, the track’s infectious groove keeps you engaged. The beat is steady but strong, making it ideal for cardio workouts like running or cycling. The song’s confident, forward-moving energy drives you to push yourself, while its laid-back vibe ensures you can keep a steady rhythm through every rep or step. It’s a balanced, motivating track that fuels both the mind and body.

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Thrift Shop, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Wanz, Album: The Heist, Release Year: 2012, Explicit: Yes

“Thrift Shop” is the ultimate fun, feel-good anthem for your workout. With its quirky, upbeat rhythm and Macklemore’s witty lyrics, it’s impossible not to have a smile on your face as you get into your groove. The song’s catchy hook and funky beat make it perfect for any workout that requires high energy and a bit of personality—whether you’re doing cardio, dance, or weightlifting. The upbeat tempo, combined with its lighthearted vibe, will keep you moving and motivated, proving that you don’t need a fancy gym playlist to get in a good workout.

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The Way You Move, Outkast, Sleepy Brown, Album: Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: No

OutKast’s “The Way You Move” brings a smooth, laid-back groove to your workout playlist, but with enough bounce to keep you engaged. Sleepy Brown’s sultry vocals, paired with OutKast’s funky beats, create a chill vibe that’s perfect for steady-state cardio, yoga, or cool-down stretches. The easygoing tempo and infectious melody allow you to find a rhythm while still maintaining focus. It’s a track that makes you want to move, but without pushing you into overdrive—ideal for when you need to stay active but at a relaxed pace.

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Hey Ya!, Outkast, Album: Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: No

With its irresistible beat and energetic tempo, “Hey Ya!” is a track that can get you moving no matter what workout you’re doing. The song’s funky rhythm, combined with its quirky vocals, creates an atmosphere of fun and excitement—perfect for high-intensity cardio or dance routines. The infectious “Hey ya!” chorus is the perfect motivational boost, making it hard not to move your body to the beat. Whether you’re on a treadmill, doing HIIT, or hitting the dance floor, this track ensures you stay energized and ready to push through.

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Get Ur Freak On, Missy Elliott, Album: Miss E…So Addictive, Release Year: 2001, Explicit: No

Missy Elliott’s “Get Ur Freak On” is a high-energy hip-hop workout song that infuses your routine with attitude and power. The hard-hitting beats, combined with Missy’s iconic flow, make it a perfect choice for those needing a boost of confidence while pushing through tough sets. The track’s fast pace, rhythmic drive, and bold vibe fuel your focus and intensity, making it ideal for high-intensity workouts or explosive movements like sprints, box jumps, or heavy lifting. Missy’s “freak on” mantra will have you embracing every challenge with energy and style.

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Cyclone, Baby Bash, T-Pain, Album: Cyclone, Release Year: 2007, Explicit: Yes

Cyclone is a club banger that doubles as a perfect workout track. The slow yet infectious beat, paired with Baby Bash’s smooth delivery and T-Pain’s catchy hooks, makes it a great song for lifting or steady cardio. The track’s laid-back tempo doesn’t sacrifice energy, creating a vibe that keeps you moving steadily through your workout while maintaining a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re doing full-body exercises or going through a longer workout session, “Cyclone” gives you the groove you need to stay focused without feeling rushed.

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I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho), Pitbull, Album: Rebelution, Release Year: 2009, Explicit: Yes

“I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho)” is a high-energy anthem that’ll get you moving, no matter the exercise. The song’s infectious Latin-inspired beats, paired with Pitbull’s confident lyrics, bring the perfect amount of party vibe to any workout. Whether you’re sprinting, dancing, or crushing high-intensity interval training (HIIT), this track has the rhythm and motivation to keep your energy levels high. The catchy chorus and upbeat tempo fuel a sense of urgency, making it ideal for workouts that demand stamina, speed, and attitude.

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Hotel Room Service, Pitbull, Album: Rebelution, Release Year: 2009, Explicit: Yes

Pitbull’s “Hotel Room Service” is a party track that can easily fuel your workout. With its thumping bass, catchy rhythm, and confident delivery, this song keeps the energy high from start to finish. The danceable beat and infectious hooks make it perfect for cardio routines or circuit training, where staying motivated is key. The playful vibe encourages you to stay engaged and keep moving, while the upbeat tempo keeps your heart rate up and your focus sharp, ensuring you hit your fitness goals with style.

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It’s Goin’ Down, Yung Joc, Nitti, Album: New Joc City, Release Year: 2006, Explicit: Yes

With its bold beat and catchy hook, “It’s Goin’ Down” is a perfect track for powering through tough workouts. Yung Joc’s confident flow, paired with the bouncy, hard-hitting rhythm, gives you the energy you need for intense intervals or strength training. The song’s steady tempo and aggressive vibe keep you focused and motivated, especially during exercises that require sustained effort. Whether you’re doing heavy lifting or hitting high-intensity intervals, “It’s Goin’ Down” gives you that extra push to keep moving.

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Club Can’t Handle Me Now, Flo Rida, David Guetta, Album: Step Up 3D Soundtrack, Release Year: 2010, Explicit: No

Club Can’t Handle Me is the perfect anthem for when you want to take your workout to the next level. Flo Rida’s energetic flow and David Guetta’s punchy beats combine to create a track that’s all about having a good time while pushing yourself. The song’s pulsating rhythm, catchy lyrics, and high-energy chorus make it perfect for cardio, cycling, or any workout that requires consistent movement and motivation. With its club-ready sound, the song makes you feel like you’re the star of your own workout party.

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Tipsy, J-Kwon, Album: Hood Hop, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

“Tipsy” is a throwback track with a catchy, upbeat rhythm that’s perfect for keeping your energy levels up during any workout. The bouncy beat and J-Kwon’s playful lyrics create a fun atmosphere that pushes you to keep going. Whether you’re running, doing agility drills, or lifting weights, this song’s steady pace and infectious hook will keep you on track, with its rhythm and flow helping you power through those tough sets. Its lighthearted vibe makes it an ideal choice for cardio, but also for strength training when you want a bit of fun mixed in.

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Glamorous, Fergie, Ludacris, Album: The Dutchess, Release Year: 2006, Explicit: Yes

Glamorous is an upbeat, empowering track that inspires confidence with every move. Fergie’s catchy chorus and Ludacris’ smooth rap flow create a high-energy vibe that’s perfect for any workout, especially if you’re looking for something to make you feel on top of your game. Whether you’re lifting weights or powering through a cardio session, this track adds a touch of glamour and confidence to your workout. The steady beat and motivating lyrics remind you to keep pushing and keep looking fabulous while doing it.

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Good Feeling, Flo Rida, Album: Wild Ones, Release Year: 2011, Explicit: Yes

“Good Feeling” is an upbeat, motivational anthem that’s perfect for any high-energy workout. With its infectious rhythm, powerful lyrics, and uplifting beats, Flo Rida’s track will have you feeling unstoppable. Whether you’re running, cycling, or doing full-body workouts, this song’s fast pace and positive vibe are guaranteed to keep your momentum going. The track’s chorus, with its “I know that we’re gonna be alright” vibe, creates a feeling of optimism and strength, ensuring you stay focused and energized throughout your workout.

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Lean Back, Terror Squad, Fat Joe, Remy Ma, Album: True Story, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

“Lean Back” is a classic hip-hop anthem with a slow yet confident groove that demands attention. The track’s laid-back beat and Fat Joe’s smooth flow, combined with Remy Ma’s fiery verses, create a perfect soundtrack for a workout that requires both power and focus. The song’s iconic chorus, “Lean back, lean back,” is ideal for keeping a steady rhythm during low-impact workouts or strength training, making it a great choice for those who want to maintain form while still staying in the groove. It’s a vibe that says you’re in control, even when the intensity is high.

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Just Lose It, Eminem, Album: Encore, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

Eminem’s “Just Lose It” is a high-energy, playful track that can get you pumped up for any workout. With its upbeat tempo, catchy beat, and Em’s signature rapid-fire delivery, this track injects a sense of fun and chaos into your routine. It’s perfect for cardio, HIIT, or any exercise that requires explosive energy and a good sense of humor. The track’s “lose it” chorus encourages you to let go of distractions and push through the toughest sets. If you’re looking for a song to bring laughter and intensity to your workout, “Just Lose It” is a great choice.

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Funky Cold Medina, Tone Loc, Album: Lōc-ed After Dark, Release Year: 1989, Explicit: No

Tone Lōc’s “Funky Cold Medina” is a laid-back classic that combines smooth raps with a funky beat, making it an ideal track for a workout that’s fun but doesn’t sacrifice rhythm. It’s a great choice for lighter cardio, stretching, or even an upbeat cool-down after a tough session. The song’s quirky energy and funky flow will help you keep moving at a steady pace while having a good time. The playful vibe encourages you to enjoy the process of working out, without taking things too seriously.

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Right Thurr, Chingy, Album: Jackpot, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

Chingy’s “Right Thurr” is a smooth yet bouncy track that brings the right amount of swagger to any workout. Its catchy beat and Chingy’s laid-back delivery make it ideal for a workout where you want to stay active but keep things light and fun. The track’s steady tempo and playful lyrics make it a great choice for low-impact cardio, walking, or a casual strength session. It gives you enough rhythm to stay in the groove while maintaining an easy-going pace, making it an excellent choice for steady-state workouts.

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Yeah!, Usher, Lil Jon, Ludacris, Album: Confessions, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

Yeah! is a certified club banger that translates perfectly as a hip-hop workout song. Usher’s smooth vocals, combined with Lil Jon’s hyped-up energy and Ludacris’ quick-flowing verses, create a dynamic vibe that keeps you motivated from start to finish. The upbeat tempo and infectious chorus make it ideal for intense cardio, cycling, or dance-based workouts. When you’re looking for a song to help you push through those last few reps or keep your energy up during a high-intensity interval, Yeah! keeps the momentum going with ease and style.

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Salt Shaker, Ying Yang Twins, Lil Jon & the East Side Boyz, Album: Me & My Brother, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

Salt Shaker is a crunk anthem that brings the heat and energy necessary for an intense workout. The song’s bass-heavy beats and Lil Jon’s signature hype style make it a great choice for activities requiring power and stamina. Whether you’re hitting the weights, doing explosive exercises, or blasting through a cardio session, the aggressive tempo and rhythmic beats of Salt Shaker will push you to keep going. It’s a track that brings the party vibe, ensuring your workout is filled with energy and focus.

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I Wish, Skee-Lo, Album: I Wish, Release Year: 1995, Explicit: No

Skee-Lo’s “I Wish” might seem like an unlikely workout song, but its laid-back flow and reflective vibe make it a perfect choice for a cool-down or recovery session. The nostalgic, smooth beat and self-reflective lyrics provide a great balance of relaxation and motivation. If you’ve just completed an intense workout and need to stretch or do some yoga, this track’s steady rhythm helps you unwind and reset. It’s the perfect song for a gentle yet uplifting cool-down, reminding you that every effort is worth it.

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Party Like a Rockstar, Shop Boyz, Album: Rockstar Mentality, Release Year: 2007, Explicit: Yes

Party Like a Rockstar brings the right amount of wild energy to any workout, thanks to its catchy beat and rebellious vibe. The track’s upbeat rhythm and rockstar lyrics give you the sense that you’re in the zone, pushing limits and having fun while doing it. Whether you’re running, cycling, or going through a circuit training session, the high-energy vibe of Party Like a Rockstar will keep you moving with confidence. The song’s powerful bass and carefree attitude encourage you to let go and push through every set like you’re living your best life.

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Give Me Everything, Pitbull, Ne-Yo, Afrojack, Nayer, Album: Planet Pit, Release Year: 2011, Explicit: Yes

Pitbull’s “Give Me Everything” is the ultimate high-energy anthem, designed to fuel your workout with pure party vibes. The infectious chorus, catchy verses from Ne-Yo, and Afrojack’s electrifying beats make it impossible to stay still. This track is ideal for intense cardio sessions, dance classes, or circuit training where you need to keep the momentum going. Its club-ready vibe and feel-good lyrics encourage you to push through your workout with confidence and swagger. The song’s relentless energy provides the perfect motivation to hit your peak and leave it all on the floor.

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I’mma Shine, Youngbloodz, Album: Drumline Soundtrack, Release Year: 2002, Explicit: Yes

I’mma Shine is an empowering anthem that radiates self-confidence, making it a perfect workout track. With its infectious hook and strong beat, this song is all about pushing through obstacles and shining in the face of adversity. The powerful energy in Youngbloodz’s verses combined with the rhythmic flow motivates you to give everything you’ve got, whether you’re hitting the weights or powering through a running session. The song’s determined vibe gives you the mental edge to stay focused, making it a must-have for any workout playlist that requires maximum effort.

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Can’t Hold Us, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Ray Dalton, Album: The Heist, Release Year: 2012, Explicit: Yes

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’s “Can’t Hold Us” is the perfect combination of anthemic energy and motivation. From the first beat, it ignites a fire to keep you going. Ray Dalton’s powerful vocals on the chorus add an epic feel that propels you to push through any physical challenge, whether you’re running, lifting, or cycling. The song’s driving beat and Macklemore’s energetic verses keep your momentum high, making it ideal for those moments when you need a motivational boost to power through your workout.

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Baby Got Back, Sir Mix-A-Lot, Album: Mack Daddy, Release Year: 1992, Explicit: Yes

Baby Got Back is a playful and upbeat hip-hop workout song that injects fun into any workout. With its iconic bassline and Sir Mix-A-Lot’s catchy rap, this track adds a sense of confidence and swagger to your routine. Whether you’re doing cardio or dance-based exercises, the bouncy rhythm and cheeky lyrics will keep you moving with a smile. This classic song is perfect for when you want to let loose, groove to the beat, and bring a lighthearted vibe to your workout. It’s all about having fun while staying active!

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Tootsee Roll, 69 Boyz, Album; 199Quad, Release Year: 1994, Explicit: Yes

The iconic party anthem Tootsee Roll brings a fun, energetic vibe that’ll keep you moving during any workout. With its infectious hook and upbeat tempo, this track will have you dancing through your cardio or stepping it up during your strength sets. The bouncy rhythm and playful energy of the song make it a great fit for a workout that requires a bit of swagger. Whether you’re doing high-intensity intervals or just need something to keep the momentum high, Tootsee Roll guarantees a good time while staying active.

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Bust a Move, Young MC, Album: Stone Cold Rhymin’, Release Year: 1989, Explicit: No

Bust a Move is a classic hip-hop workout song with a funky, feel-good vibe that makes it perfect for dance routines or cardio workouts. The upbeat tempo and Young MC’s playful lyrics inspire you to stay light on your feet and keep the energy up. Whether you’re hitting the treadmill, doing step aerobics, or just looking for a fun way to stay active, this song’s rhythm keeps you in motion with a smile. The catchy hook and fun vibe make it impossible not to groove while you work up a sweat.

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Work It, Missy Elliott, Album: Under Construction, Release Year: 2002, Explicit: Yes

Missy Elliott’s “Work It” is a hip-hop workout song must-have for anyone looking to add attitude and fun to their routine. The track’s playful, bass-heavy beat and Missy’s signature flow make it perfect for any high-energy workout. From strength training to cardio, this song keeps you moving with confidence, pushing you to “work it” with every rep or sprint. Its bouncy rhythm and empowering lyrics remind you that you’ve got this—no matter the challenge. With Missy’s smooth delivery and iconic beat, it’s a track that’s sure to fuel your fire during any session.

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Wild Thing, Tone Loc, Album: Lōc-ed After Dark, Release Year: 1988, Explicit: No

Tone Lōc’s “Wild Thing” has a laid-back, groovy feel, making it the perfect hip-hop workout song for when you need to keep things fun but still stay active. The mellow vibe combined with Lōc’s distinctive voice makes this an ideal choice for low-impact cardio, stretching, or a casual cool-down after a tough session. The track’s smooth tempo encourages steady, rhythmic movement while still adding a playful touch to your workout. For those looking to balance energy with relaxation, Wild Thing offers the perfect chill yet motivating vibe.

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Back That Thang Up, JUVENILE, Lil Wayne, Album: 400 Degreez, Release Year: 1999, Explicit: Yes

Juvenile’s “Back That Thang Up” is a club classic that brings heavy bass and an infectious beat to any workout. The song’s upbeat tempo and Lil Wayne’s energetic guest verses make it perfect for high-intensity workouts or cardio sessions. Whether you’re doing HIIT, running, or circuit training, this track’s catchy rhythm keeps you moving at full speed. The swagger-filled lyrics encourage you to take charge of your workout, while the relentless beat provides the drive to keep pushing through every set. This track will get you fired up and keep you going strong.

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Headsprung, LL Cool J, Album: The DEFinition, Release Year: 2004, Explicit: Yes

Headsprung is a high-energy, hip-hop anthem with a bounce that’ll keep you moving. LL Cool J’s confident flow and the track’s upbeat tempo make it an excellent choice for any workout that requires focus and stamina. Whether you’re hitting the gym for a tough lifting session or powering through a cardio workout, the track’s assertive beat and motivating lyrics will keep you engaged and energized. The song’s high tempo and rhythmic beats encourage you to maintain a fast pace, making it a great pick for speed and intensity workouts.

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Party Up, DMX, Album: …And Then There Was X, Release Year: 1999, Explicit: Yes

DMX’s “Party Up” is an unapologetic, high-energy hip-hop workout song that commands attention and delivers a rush of adrenaline. The track’s aggressive beat, combined with DMX’s raw energy, is perfect for those intense workout moments where you need a motivational push. Whether you’re tackling high-intensity intervals, running, or lifting heavy, this track keeps your adrenaline high and your focus sharp. The song’s defiant lyrics and pounding tempo make it ideal for workouts where you need to channel your inner fighter and push through barriers. “Party Up” ensures you stay pumped and ready to dominate your session.

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Move B*tch, Ludacris, Mystikal, I-20, Album: Word of Mouf, Release Year: 2001, Explicit: Yes

Move B*tch is a no-holds-barred, high-energy hip-hop workout song that brings an intense level of aggression to your workout. With its hard-hitting beat, aggressive lyrics, and Ludacris’ commanding flow, this song is made for when you need to channel raw energy into your workout. Whether you’re running sprints, pushing through a grueling lifting session, or doing intense HIIT, this track’s relentless pace will keep you moving faster and harder. The track encourages you to power through obstacles and push limits, making it a go-to for anyone looking to elevate their workout intensity.

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Push It, Salt-N-Pepa, Hot, Album: Cool & Vicious, Release Year: 1986, Explicit: Yes

Salt-N-Pepa’s “Push It” is a classic hip-hop workout song that brings both fun and energy to your workout. The track’s funky beat and playful lyrics make it a perfect choice for dance-based exercises, cardio, or even a step class. With its confident vibe and catchy hook, it encourages you to push through any challenge, whether you’re just starting or you’re nearing the end of a tough set. The upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it impossible not to move, providing the perfect energy boost when you need it the most.

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Where Is the Love?, Black Eyed Peas, Album: Elephunk, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: No

Where Is the Love? is a powerful and thought-provoking track that’s not only a great motivational anthem but also an emotionally-charged workout song. Its steady beat and deep, introspective lyrics provide a great backdrop for workouts that require focus and mental resilience. While not as intense as other tracks, it’s perfect for steady-state cardio, yoga, or cool-down sessions, where you need to keep your mind in a positive, centered space. The song’s call for unity and compassion will inspire you to keep moving with purpose, even when your body’s feeling the strain.

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Ms. New Booty, Bubba Sparxxx, Ying Yang Twins, Album: The Charm, Release Year: 2006, Explicit: Yes

Ms. New Booty is a fun and energetic hip-hop workout song with a bouncy beat that makes you want to get up and move. The playful lyrics and heavy bass are great for cardio, dance workouts, or even warm-ups before hitting the gym. The beat stays consistent and motivating, helping you keep pace as you power through your exercises. Its confident, cheeky vibe can give you the energy to push through those tough moments when you need a bit of fun to balance the grind.

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Act a Fool, Ludacris, Album: 2 Fast 2 Furious Soundtrack, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

Ludacris’ “Act a Fool” is the perfect hip-hop workout song for a high-energy workout. The aggressive beat, bold lyrics, and Ludacris’ rapid-fire delivery fuel your workout with attitude and intensity. Whether you’re pushing through intense intervals, sprinting, or lifting heavy, this track encourages you to go all out. The fast-paced tempo and hyped-up chorus keep the adrenaline pumping, ensuring that you stay focused and motivated throughout your entire workout. It’s a great track for anyone who needs a bold boost to push through every set.

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Mama Said Knock You Out, LL COOL J, Album; Mama Said Knock You Out, Release Year: 1990, Explicit: No

“Mama Said Knock You Out” is the quintessential motivational hip-hop workout song, with LL Cool J’s commanding voice pushing you to “knock out” your goals. The pounding beat and bold, energizing lyrics make it perfect for lifting heavy weights, boxing, or any high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The song channels a sense of strength, perseverance, and resilience, encouraging you to keep fighting through fatigue. If you’re looking to crush your workout with a relentless drive, this song is your ultimate training partner.

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Without Me, Eminem, Album: The Eminem Show, Release Year: 2002, Explicit: Yes

Without Me is an energizing, fast-paced track that brings the perfect amount of hype to your workout. Eminem’s sharp flow and witty lyrics keep things fun while still pushing you to move faster and harder. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it ideal for cardio sessions, HIIT, or circuit training, where quick bursts of energy are required. The song’s playful, rebellious vibe also keeps things light-hearted, making it a perfect choice for those moments when you want to let loose and give your workout everything you’ve got.

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Ride wit Me, Nelly, City Spud, Album: Country Grammar, Release Year: 2000, Explicit: No

Ride Wit Me is a laid-back yet catchy track that’s perfect for a more relaxed workout session. Whether you’re going for a long run, cycling, or doing some steady-state cardio, the smooth vibe and easy rhythm of the song will help keep you at a steady pace. The lyrics about cruising and enjoying the ride provide a sense of calm, making it a good option for cool-downs or moderate workouts where you need to keep a consistent but relaxed energy level.

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Shake Ya Tailfeather, Nelly, P. Diddy, Murphy Lee, Album: Bad Boys II, Release Year: 2003, Explicit: Yes

With its catchy hook and energetic beat, “Shake Ya Tailfeather” is a hip-hop workout song that’s all about high energy and fun. The track’s fast pace and bold attitude are ideal for getting you pumped up for a workout that requires intensity and focus. Whether you’re lifting, sprinting, or dancing, the track’s bouncy rhythm helps you keep the pace and stay motivated. The lively collaboration between Nelly, P. Diddy, and Murphy Lee brings an undeniable party vibe to your workout, ensuring that every rep or step is filled with enthusiasm.

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Stronger, Kanye West, Album: Graduation, Release Year: 2007, Explicit: Yes

Stronger is the ultimate motivational anthem for any workout, with its hard-hitting beats and powerful lyrics. Kanye West samples Daft Punk’s “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger,” creating a driving force that will push you to your limits. This track is ideal for when you’re in the zone, powering through those last reps, or working toward personal bests. The message of becoming stronger with each effort aligns perfectly with fitness goals, making it a go-to track for strength training, HIIT, or any workout that demands mental and physical endurance.

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Rump Shaker, Wreckx-N-Effect, Album: Hard or Smooth, Release Year: 1992, Explicit: Yes

Rump Shaker brings a smooth yet bouncy vibe to your workout playlist, with its infectious hook and funky rhythm. The laid-back beat and confident energy make it ideal for dance-based workouts, cardio, or even as a warm-up track. It’s the kind of song that keeps you moving, but in a way that feels effortless. If you’re looking for a fun, upbeat song to keep you grooving while you’re working up a sweat, Rump Shaker is sure to keep the energy high without demanding too much aggression.

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Lose Yourself, Eminem, Album: 8 Mile: Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture, Release Year: 2002, Explicit: Yes

Lose Yourself is the ultimate hip-hop workout song for digging deep and finding that extra level of focus and intensity during a workout. With its inspiring message and relentless tempo, it encourages you to seize every opportunity and push past your limits. Whether you’re lifting, running, or engaging in a high-intensity interval, the song’s powerful hook and rapid verses provide the perfect soundtrack to keep you focused on the goal. The track’s adrenaline-pumping vibe ensures that you’ll stay in the zone, giving everything you’ve got until the very end.

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My Humps, The Black Eyed Peas, Album: Monkey Business, Release Year: 2005, Explicit: Yes

My Humps is an upbeat, catchy hip-hop workout song that adds a playful and fun energy to your workout. The infectious rhythm, combined with Fergie’s vocal hook and the Peas’ signature sound, makes it a great choice for cardio, dance, or even a high-energy warm-up. Its bouncy beat and cheeky lyrics will keep you moving at a steady pace, helping you stay lighthearted while still powering through your workout. If you’re looking for a fun, easy-going track that gets you into the groove without sacrificing intensity, My Humps is a great pick.

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Get Low, Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz, Ying Yang Twins, Album: Kings of Crunk, Release Year: 2002, Explicit: Yes

Get Low is the epitome of hype, with its bass-heavy beat and crunk-style energy. Lil Jon’s commanding vocals combined with the Ying Yang Twins’ hype-filled verses create the perfect backdrop for a workout that demands power and aggression. Whether you’re performing squats, jumping into HIIT, or tackling an intense cardio session, this track keeps the energy level high. The song’s tempo and crowd-chanting chorus make it great for motivating you to push through fatigue and keep up the momentum during every set.

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The Ultimate List of Good Workout Dance Songs

The ultimate list of good workout dance songs

This is for anyone searching for a thorough, thoughtful list of good workout dance songs. There’s no fluff. No unnecessary chatter. (Which, if you’ve seen my other content like my posts of 80s workout songs and 90s workout songs, you’ll find I’m nothing if not verbose.) But, today I’m keeping it succinct. Just a straightforward, matter-of-fact list of good workout dance songs.

How Does a Song Make It On My List of Good Workout Dance Songs?

To qualify, these songs needed to be:

  • Moderate to fast in tempo
  • Popular, with a high likelihood that someone will know the lyrics
  • Songs that are danceable (in my very professional, unbiased opinion! ;))

My Official List: Good Workout Dance Songs

  • “Party Rock Anthem,” LMFAO, Lauren Bennett, GoonRock
  • “The Edge of Glory,” Lady Gaga
  • “Wild Ones,” Flo Rida, Sia 
  • “50 Ways to Say Goodbye,” Train
  • “Turn Down for What,” DJ Snake, Lil Jon
  • “Feel It Still,” Portugal. The Man
  • “Tik Tok,” Kesha 
  • “California Gurls,” Katy Perry, Snoop Dogg
  • “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love,” Usher, Pitbull 
  • “Sexy B*tch,” David Guetta, Akon 
  • “Like a G6,” Far East Movement, The Cataracs, Dev
  • “Club Can’t Handle Me Now,” Flo Rida, David Guetta
  • “Baby,” Justin Bieber, Ludacris
  • “Only Girl (In The World),” Rihanna
  • “You Belong With Me,” Taylor Swift
  • “Firework,” Katy Perry
  • “Give Me Everything,” Pitbull, Ne-Yo, Afrojack, Nayer
  • “Super Bass,” Nicki Minaj
  • “On The Floor,” Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull 
  • “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.),” Katy Perry 
  • “Tonight (I’m Loving You),” Enrique Iglesias, Ludacris, DJ Frank E
  • “Raise Your Glass,” P!nk
  • “Born The Way,” Lady Gaga
  • “Till The World Ends,” Britney Spears
  • “Tonight, Tonight,” Hot Chelle Rae
  • “You Make Me Feel…” Cobra Starship, Sabi 
  • “Sexy and I Know It,” LMFAO 
  • “Call Me Maybe,” Carly Rae Jepsen
  • “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You),” Kelly Clarkson
  • “We Found Love,” Rihanna, Calvin Harris 
  • “What Makes You Beautiful,” One Direction 
  • “Good Feeling,” Flo Rida
  • “Moves Like Jagger,” Maroon 5, Christina Aguilera
  • “Feel So Close,” Calvin Harris
  • “Can’t Hold Us,” Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Ray Dalton
  • “Gangnam Style,” Psy
  • “Happy,” Pharrell Williams
  • “Talk Dirty,” Jason Derulo, 2 Chainz
  • “All About That Bass,” Meghan Trainor
  • “Bang Bang,” Jessie J, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj
  • “Summer,” Calvin Harris
  • “Break Free,” Ariana Grande, Zedd
  • “Uptown Funk,” Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars
  • “Sugar,” Maroon 5
  • “Shut Up and Dance,” Walk the Moon
  • “Blank Space,” Taylor Swift 
  • “Can’t Feel My Face,” The Weeknd
  • “Bad Blood,” Taylor Swift
  • “Shake It Off,” Taylor Swift
  • “Lips Are Movin,” Meghan Trainor 
  • “Worth It,” Fifth Harmony, Kid Ink
  • “All About That Bass,” Meghan Trainor
  • “Time of Our Lives,” Pitbull, Ne-Yo
  • “Ex’s & Oh’s,” Elle King
  • “House Party,” Sam Hunt
  • “Work,” Rihanna, Drake
  • “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” Justin Timberlake
  • “My House,” Flo Rida 
  • “Work from Home,” Fifth Harmony
  • “Cake by the Ocean,” DNCE
  • “Just Like Fire,” P!nk
  • “Perfect,” One Direction
  • “Despacito (Remix),” Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee, Justin Bieber
  • “Something Just Like This,” The Chainsmokers, Coldplay 
  • “24K Magic,” Bruno Mars 
  • “Starboy,” The Weeknd, Daft Punk
  • “Strip That Down,” Liam Payne, Quavo 
  • “Look What You Made Me Do,” Taylor Swift 
  • “Youngblood,” 5 Seconds of Summer 
  • “What Lovers Do,” Maroon 5, SZA
  • “Mi Gente,” J Balvin, Willy William, Beyonce 
  • “Sucker,” Jonas Brothers
  • “Thank U, Next,” Ariana Grande
  • “I Don’t Care,” Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber 
  • “Sweet but Psycho,” Ava Max 
  • “Me!” Taylor Swift, Brendon Urie 
  • “The Git Up,” Blanco Brown 
  • “Hella Good,” No Doubt
  • “The Way You Move,” Outkast, Sleepy Brown
  • “Hey Ya!” Outkast
  • “Lose My Breath,” Destiny’s Child
  • “Are You Gonna Be My Girl,” Jet
  • “Let’s Get It Started,” The Black Eyed Peas
  • “Hey Mama,” The Black Eyed Peas
  • “Since You Been Gone,” Kelly Clarkson
  • “Lose Control,” Missy Elliott, Ciara, Fatman Scoop
  • “Sugar, We’re Goin Down,” Fall Out Boy 
  • “Everytime We Touch,” Cascada
  • “Dance, Dance,” Fall Out Boy
  • “Pump It,” The Black Eyed Peas
  • “This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race,” Fall Out Boy
  • “Thnks fr th Mmrs,” Fall Out Boy
  • “Boom Boom Pow,” The Black Eyed Peas
  • “My Life Would Suck Without You,” Kelly Clarkson
  • “Circus,” Britney Spears
  • “Where the Party At,” Jagged Edge, Nelly
  • “Survivor,” Destiny’s Child
  • “Love Don’t Cost a Thing,” Jennifer Lopez
  • “Bootylicious,” Destiny’s Child
  • “Get Busy,” Sean Paul
  • “Crazy In Love,” Beyonce 
  • “Get Low,” Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz, Ying Yang Twins
  • “Shake Ya Tailfeather,” Nelly, P. Diddy, Murphy Lee
  • “Stand Up,” Ludacris, Shawnna
  • “Jenny From The Block,” Jennifer Lopez, Jadakiss, Styles P
  • “What Was I Thinkin’,” Dierks Bentley
  • “Yeah!” Usher, Lil Jon, Ludacris
  • “Goodies,” Ciara, Petey Pablo
  • “Lean Back,” Terror Squad, Fat Joe, Remy Ma
  • “Tipsy,” J-Kwon
  • “Freek-a-leek,” Petey Pablo
  • “Milkshake,” Kelis
  • “Toxic,” Britney Spears
  • “Salt Shaker,” Ying Yang Twins, Lil Jon & the East Side Boyz
  • “Headsprung,” LL Cool J
  • “Just Lose It,” Eminem
  • “Redneck Woman,” Gretchen Wilson 
  • “Hollaback Girl,” Gwen Stefani
  • “1,2 Step,” Ciara, Missy Elliott
  • “Candy Shop,” 50 Cent, Olivia
  • “Don’t Cha,” The Pussycat Dolls, Busta Rhymes
  • “Mr. Brightside,” The Killers
  • “Pon de Replay,” Rihanna
  • “How We Do,” The Game, 50 Cent 
  • “Hate It or Love It,” The Game, 50 Cent 
  • “Switch,” Will Smith
  • “My Humps,” The Black Eyed Peas
  • “Caught Up,” Usher
  • “Holiday,” Green Day 
  • “Run It,” Chris Brown, Juelz Santana
  • “Temperature,” Sean Paul
  • “SexyBack,” Justin Timberlake, Timbaland
  • “Me & U,” Cassie
  • “Buttons,” Pussycat Dolls, Snoop Dogg
  • “SOS,” Rihanna
  • “I Write Sins Not Tragedies,” Panic! at the Disco
  • “Ms. New Booty,” Bubba Sparxxx, Ying Yang Twins
  • “Dirty Little Secret,” The All-American Rejects 
  • “Fergalicious,” Fergie, will.i.am
  • “U + Ur Hand,” P!nk
  • “Here (In Your Arms),” Hellogoodbye
  • “Low,” Flo Rida, T-Pain
  • “I Kissed a Girl,” Katy Perry
  • “Disturbia,” Rihanna 
  • “Don’t Stop the Music,” Rihanna 
  • “Pocketful of Sunshine,” Natasha Bedingfield
  • “So What,” P!nk 
  • “Hot n Cold,” Katy Perry
  • “One Step at a Time,” Jordin Sparks
  • “Womanizer,” Britney Spears
  • “Poker Face,” Lady Gaga
  • “Just Dance,” Lady Gaga, Colby O’Donis
  • “I Gotta Feeling,” The Black Eyed Peas
  • “Right Round,” Flo Rida
  • “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” Beyonce 
  • “Gives You Hell,” The All-American Rejects
  • “I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho),” Pitbull 
  • “Party in the U.S.A,” Miley Cyrus
  • “Good Girls Go Bad,” Cobra Starship, Leighton Meester
  • “Hotel Room Service,” Pitbull 
  • “U Can’t Touch This,” MC Hammer 
  • “Emotions,” Mariah Carey
  • “We Didn’t Start The Fire,” Billy Joel 
  • “Motownphilly,” Boyz II Men
  • “Finally,” CeCe Peniston
  • “Move This,” Technotronic
  • “2 Legit 2 Quit,” MC Hammer 
  • “Whoomp! (There It Is),” Tag Team
  • “Rhythm Is A Dancer,” Snap!
  • “Tootsee Roll,” 69 Boyz
  • “Run Away,” Real McCoy 
  • “Turn The Beat Around,” Gloria Estefan
  • “C’mon N’ Ride It (The Train),” Quad City DJ’s
  • “Just A Girl,” No Doubt
  • “Wannabe,” Spice Girls 
  • “All For You,” Sister Hazel 
  • “Ooh Aah…Just a Little Bit,” Gina G. 
  • “Together Again,” Janet Jackson
  • “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It,” Will Smith
  • “Spice Up Your Life,” Spice Girls
  • “Raise the Roof,” Luke
  • “Livin’ la Vida Loca,” Ricky Martin
  • “Bailamos,” Enrique Iglesias
  • “Pump Up The Jam,” Technotronic
  • “Opposites Attract,” Paula Abdul
  • “Escapade,” Janet Jackson
  • “Ice Ice Baby,” Vanilla Ice 
  • “U Can’t Touch This,” MC Hammer 
  • “Love Shack,” The B-52’s 
  • “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now),” C+C Music Factory
  • “Good Vibrations,” Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch 
  • “Baby Got Back,” Sir Mix A Lot
  • “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It),” En Vogue
  • “I’m Too Sexy,” Right Said Fred
  • “Jump Around,” House of Pain
  • “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” Nirvana 
  • “Ain’t 2 Proud 2 Beg,” TLC 
  • “Friday I’m In Love,” The Cure
  • “Let’s Get Rocked,” DEF LEPPARD
  • “Rump Shaker,” Wreckx N Effect
  • “If,” Janet Jackson
  • “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles),” The Proclaimers
  • “I’m Every Woman,” Whitney Houston 
  • “Boom! Shake The Room,” DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince 
  • “This Is How We Do It,” Montell Jordan 
  • “The Rhythm of the Night,” Corona
  • “Macarena,” Los Del Rio
  • “MMMBop,” Hanson
  • “Semi-Charmed Life,” Third Eye Blind
  • “Barbie Girl,” Aqua
  • “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back),” Backstreet Boys
  • “One Week,” Barenaked Ladies
  • “Dangerous,” Busta Rhymes
  • “…Baby One More Time,” Britney Spears
  • “Where My Girls At?” 702
  • “All Star,” Smash Mouth
  • “Call Me,” Blondie (143 BPM)
  • “You May Be Right,” Billy Joel (151 BPM)
  • “Heartbreaker,” Pat Benatar (156 BPM)
  • “Queen of Hearts,” Juice Newton (170 BPM)
  • “Whip It,” Devo (158 BPM)
  • “We Got The Beat,” The Go-Go’s (152 BPM)
  • “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic,” The Police (82 BPM; can go “double time” at chorus)
  • “Kids in America,” Kim Wilde (160 BPM)
  • “Working for the Weekend,” Loverboy (147 BPM)
  • “Maneater,” Hall & Oates (178 BPM)
  • “She Works Hard For the Money,” Donna Summer (137 BPM; close enough!)
  • “You Can’t Hurry Love,” Phil Collins (98 BPM; can go “double time” at chorus)
  • “I’m Still Standing,” Elton John (177 BPM)
  • “Footloose,” Kenny Loggins (174 BPM)
  • “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.,” John Cougar Mellencamp (164 BPM)
  • “Walk Like An Egyptian,” The Bangles (103 BPM; can go “double time” at chorus)
  • “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” Queen (77 BPM: can go “double time”)
  • “It’s Still Rock and Roll To Me,” Billy Joel (141 BPM)
  • “You Make My Dreams,” Hall & Oates (167 BPM)
  • “De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da,” The Police (148 BPM)
  • “Tainted Love,” Soft Cell (144 BPM)
  • “Mickey,” Toni Basil (150 BPM)
  • “Always Something There To Remind Me,” Naked Eyes (149 BPM)
  • “Let’s Groove,” Earth, Wind, & Fire (125 BPM)
  • “Our Lips Are Sealed,” The Go-Go’s (131 BPM)
  • “Oh, Pretty Woman,” Van Halen (128 BPM)
  • “Beat It,” Michael Jackson (139 BPM)
  • “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),” Eurythmics (125 BPM)
  • “Hungry Like The Wolf,” Duran Duran (128 BPM)
  • “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin,” Michael Jackson (122 BPM)
  • “Jump,” Van Halen (130 BPM)
  • “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” Cyndi Lauper (120 BPM)
  • “Uptown Girl,” Billy Joel (129 BPM)
  • “Love Is a Battlefield,” Pat Benatar 
  • “Like a Virgin,” Madonna 
  • “All She Wants to Do Is Dance,” Don Henley
  • “Addicted to Love,” Robert Palmer
  • “Nothin’ but a Good Time,” Poison
  • “I Just Want to Celebrate,” Rare Earth
  • “Rockin’ Robin,” Michael Jackson 
  • “Crocodile Rock,” Elton John
  • “The Ballroom Blitz,” Sweet
  • “Love Machine,” The Miracles 
  • “The Boys Are Back in Town,” Thin Lizzy 
  • “Barracuda,” Heart
  • “My Sharona,” The Knack 
  • “Shake Your Groove Thing,” Peaches & Herb
  • “I Was Made for Dancin’,” Leif Garrett
  • “We Are Family,” Sister Sledge
  • “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” KISS 
  • “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor),” Robert Palmer
  • “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” The Beach Boys

Did I miss any? Send me a note with your suggestions to michelle@groupxfitnesstips.com.

Enjoy!

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Indoor Cycling Motivational Songs and Playlist #2: Dedication Ride

Motivational Indoor Cycling Routine: Dedication Ride

This is the second part of a series of rides exploring different motivational techniques for indoor cycling routines. Today, we’ll cover how to motivate your class by dedicating the ride to someone else. This has been an INCREDIBLY effective motivational technique in my classes. I get a request for at least one dedication song in nearly all of my classes!

Here’s how it works. Simply ask the class to dedicate their ride to someone else. They don’t need to say it out loud. They can just set the intention mentally. There are so many ways you can do this. You can dedicate an entire ride, like what we’ll do today. You can dedicate one song. You can have multiple songs devoted to this exercise, and each one is dedicated to a different person. Your participants can dedicate the song to someone they know or someone they don’t know. Nothing is off limits here.

Usually, these rides are dedicated to someone that needs a little extra love, luck, or good vibes. Honestly, I’ve found that almost all of us fall in that category some days. (So, if you’re reading this, give yourself an extra hug!)

Reminder: I like to teach my indoor cycling classes in a series of exercises that we do 2-4 times through. I pick a couple exercises to make up the series, and we stick to it throughout the class. That way, participants know what to expect, so they can go big when they’re supposed to and not hold back for fear of another interval around the corner.

The Series (50-minute workout)

Do the following exercises, four times through.

  • Surge at chorus. Find a moderate intensity with a little more resistance than a flat road. At the chorus, add resistance and increase the pace to find a hard intensity. You can get to very hard intensity, but make sure participants are not going completely breathless.
  • Mud at chorus. (No mud is harmed in the making of this exercise. :)) Find a moderate intensity with a little more resistance than a flat road. At the chorus, you’ll add enough resistance for it to feel very heavy. Aim for at least 65 RPM. Don’t go less than that, and find a very hard intensity effort level with a mix of this resistance and pace.
    • Bonus! In the second or third series, I will cue participants to visualize that they’re riding a tandem bike with their dedicated person. At the chorus, their dedicated person has “stopped pedaling” and needs participants to pull their weight to get to their destination.
  • Surprise sprints. At my cue, I will choose an interval of time (typically 30 or 45 seconds) for a breathless intensity. I’ll always allow for the same amount of time in recovery after.

Dedication Ride Indoor Cycling Routine and Playlist

Series Song / WorkoutSong
Warm up“Glad You Came,” The Wanted
Song 1: Surge“Came Here for Love,” Sigala, Ella Eyre
Song 2: Mud“Who Says You Can’t Go Home,” Bon Jovi, Jennifer Nettles
Song 3: Surprise Sprints“I’ll Be There for You,” The Rembrandts
Song 1: Surge“Together Again,” Janet Jackson
Song 2: Mud“Don’t Let Me Down,” The Chainsmokers, Daya
Song 3: Surprise Sprints“I Want You,” Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Song 1: Surge“Kryptonite,” 3 Doors Down
Song 2: Mud“A Thousand Miles,” Vanessa Carlton
Song 3: Surprise Sprints“I’ll Be Your Shelter,” Batwheels, Andy Sturmer
Song 1: Surge“Feels Like Home,” Sigala, Fuse ODG, Sean Paul, Kent Jones
Song 2: Mud“Never Let You Go,” Third Eye Blind
Song 3: Surprise Sprints“Got My Mind Set On You,” George Harrison
Cool Down“I Won’t Give Up,” Jason Mraz

Want to hear the songs? Check out my Spotify playlist here or here:

Catch ya next week!

Disclaimer: Readers who rely on this information do so at their own risk. Instructors must be properly certified, insured, and have the music licensing in order to teach an indoor cycling class. GroupXFitnessTips.com is not liable for any injuries or negligence that occurs.

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60+ Halloween Workout Songs—From My 10 Years as a Trainer

Halloween Workout Songs and Playlist

Fitness instructors love Halloween — it’s one of the most common themed classes all year. But, let’s be honest, if I have to hear Monster Mash one more time, I’m going to rip my ears off. Most of the traditional Halloween workout songs are cheesy and overplayed. So, it’s up to us instructors to add a twist to the traditional Halloween playlist, so participants (and instructors alike!) aren’t moaning and groaning like goblins.

Here are a few ideas to mix up your Halloween workout songs and playlist.

Halloween Workout Songs Playlist #1: I Want Candy

As a kid, the best part about Halloween was all the candy. Lucky for us, there are so many good songs out there about that sugary or chocolatey goodness. Let your participants know that your Halloween playlist is going to be sweet this year, and then let your workout songs do the talking.

Here are a few ideas:

  1. I Want Candy, Bow Wow Wow
  2. Sugar, Maroon 5
  3. In My Pocket, Mandy Moore
  4. Birthday Cake, Rihanna
  5. Sweet Caroline, Neil Diamond
  6. Chocolate, Big Boi feat. Troze
  7. Honey, I’m Good, Andy Grammer
  8. Candyman, Christina Aguilera
  9. Sweet Nothing, Calvin Harris feat. Florence Welch
  10. Honey, I’m Home, Shania Twain
  11. Sweetness, Jimmy Eat World
  12. Sweet But Psycho, Ava Max
  13. I Want Candy, Aaron Carter
  14. Sugar, We’re Goin Down, Fall Out Boy
  15. Cherry Pie, Warrant
  16. Birthday Cake, Rihanna
  17. I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch), Four Tops
  18. Tootsie Roll, 69 Boyz
  19. Sucker, Jonas Brothers
  20. Pour Some Sugar On Me, Def Leppard [Cool Down]

Bonus! I put a bunch of these songs into a killer candy-themed indoor cycling routine! Enjoy it here

Halloween Workout Songs Playlist #2: Cool Costumes

As an adult, Halloween is all about the costumes. Feel free to broaden the playlist a bit to encompass anything related to dressing up.

Here are a few ideas:

  1. Buttons, by Pussycat Dolls
  2. Raspberry Beret, by Prince
  3. Dude, Looks Like a Lady, by Aerosmith
  4. Lace and Leather, by Britney Spears
  5. Sharp Dressed Man, by ZZ Top
  6. Wannabe, by Spice Girls
  7. Circus, by Britney Spears

Halloween Workout Songs Playlist #3: Spooky or Villain Vibes

This one is another one of my favorite workout song playlists for Halloween. Honestly, I made so many good ones! But, this has THE BEST spooky vibes. If you want to turn Rihanna’s, “Disturbia,” into a full workout playlist, this will be your jam. Give it a listen and let me know what you think!

  1. “Villain,” Bella Poarch
  2. “I’m in Love With a Monster,” Fifth Harmony
  3. “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark,” Fall Out Boy
  4. “W.I.T.C.H.,” Devon Cole
  5. “Bring Me To Life,” Evanescence
  6. “bad guy,” Billie Eilish
  7. “Disturbia,” Rihanna
  8. “Teeth,” 5 Seconds of Summer
  9. “Ghostbusters (I’m Not Afraid),” Fall Out Boy, Missy Elliott
  10. “Play with Fire (feat. Yacht Money),” Sam Tinnesz, Yacht Money
  11. “Claws,” Kim Petras
  12. “Super Freak,” Rick James
  13. “Graveyard,” Halsey
  14. “Scaredy Cat,” DPR IAN
  15. “Bones,” Imagine Dragons
  16. “Bite Me,” Avril Lavigne
  17. “Unholy (feat. Kim Petras),” Sam Smith, Kim Petras

Bonus! I put a bunch of these songs into a fun spooky-themed indoor cycling routine! Enjoy it here

Halloween Workout Songs Playlist #4: Lil Boo Theme

For Halloween 2023, I was OBSESSED with the song, “Lil Boo Thing,” by Paul Russell. I devoted an entire indoor cycling routine and playlist to it. Every song has “boo” or “boo-” in it. It’s SO GOOD year round, but especially during Halloween. Here are the songs:

  1. “Lil Boo Thang,” Paul Russell
  2. “BOOMBAYAH,” BLACKPINK
  3. “Ms. New Booty – Radio Edit,” Bubba Sparxxx
  4. “Boom Boom Pow,” Black Eyed Peas
  5. “Booty,” Jennifer Lopez, Iggy Azalea
  6. “Boots On,” Randy Houser
  7. “Low (feat. T-Pain),” Flo Rida, T-Pain
  8. “Bootylicious,” Rihanna
  9. “Boom, Boom, Boom, Boom!!,” Vengaboys
  10. “Boots,” Jessie James Decker
  11. “Booty Wurk (One Cheek at a Time),” T-Pain, Joey Galaxy
  12. “Super Bass,” Nicki Minaj
  13. “BOOM,” Tiesto, Sevenn, Gucci Mane
  14. “My Boo,” USHER, Alicia Keys

Bonus! I put a bunch of these songs into a fun boo-themed indoor cycling routine and playlist. Enjoy it here

More Halloween Workout Songs and Playlists

Looking for more Halloween songs and playlists? Join my free indoor cycling weekly routine newsletter. I share a free indoor cycling routine and playlist every week.


Feel free to combine these or choose a couple Halloween workouts songs to start with and then make it your own. While participants will appreciate you mixing up the music, they mostly just want to hear some good tunes that makes them want to work out. So, feel free to loosely interpret the theme you choose, and pick music that inspires you.

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The Cheapest Way to Become an Indoor Cycling Instructor

The Cheapest Way to Become an Indoor Cycling Instructor

Did you know typically you need to PAY to become an indoor cycling instructor?! Oof. That’s not always the case, though. I’ve been a fitness and cycling instructor for 10+ years, certified by ACE Fitness and Schwinn Indoor Cycling, and I’ve made it my personal mission to figure out how you can become a cycle instructor for the cheapest cost possible. Let’s get your butt on that podium and keep that cash in your pocket. 

Table of Contents

What Certifications Do You Need to Teach Indoor Cycling? The Checklist

Here’s what you’ll need to become an indoor cycling instructor: 

  • CPR and AED certification 
  • A group fitness certification (ACE Fitness, AFAA, and NASM are the three primary options) 
  • A Spinning® or indoor cycle certification (They all mean the same thing. Schwinn, AFAA, Spinning, and ISSA tend to be the most popular.) 

Step 1: Pick the Gyms or Studios Where You Want to Teach an Indoor Cycling Class

The requirements for indoor cycling instructors vary slightly from gym to studio. If you have all the money in the world, then skip this part. However, you’re likely here because you want to save $$, so let’s dissect these slight variations to make sure you get the right certification for your needs. 

As you pick the locations that you want to teach at, here are some of the questions you should be asking yourself–and then the hiring manager. 

What Group Fitness Certifications Are Required? 

Typically, gyms or studios will want to see that you have a Group Fitness Certification from ACE Fitness or AFAA. But, that’s not always the case, so check the job description. If you’re already certified, don’t let the job description stop you. Reach out to the group fitness director to see if they’d accept the certifications you hold. 

Are You Required to Have an Indoor Cycling Instructor Certification? 

Generally, you will be required to have a cycling instructor certification from either Spinning®, Schwinn, AFAA, or ISSA. Other studios have their own proprietary training in house, and don’t require additional certifications. 

Do I Need These Certifications In Advance? 

Another key question to ask. Sometimes instructors will require only one of these certifications prior to your audition, with the expectation that you can get the other after. Worth asking if it means you can delay paying for another certification until you’re officially on the schedule. 

Some studios and gyms will even help cover some of the costs to get certified, giving you even more reason to wait to get certified, if possible. 

Step 2: Get CPR and AED Certified 

You’ll need to be CPR certified before you can take your group fitness certification exam (at least for ACE Fitness). CPR certifications will typically cost you $50-100. Search around your local area to see if there are any free or discounted CPR training sessions. Some gyms will host CPR training for their staff. Even if you’re not on the staff yet, you can ask the director about attending the CPR session for free. It never hurts to ask. 

Just make sure you get the proper CPR certification. There are different types, and you want one that ACE Fitness (or whichever group fitness certification you choose) will accept. 

Step 3: Get Your Group Fitness Certification 

The majority of applicants will need to get a group fitness certification—in addition to an indoor cycling certification—before auditioning to become an indoor cycling instructor. Let’s look at a couple of the different certifications, based on cost, respectability, difficulty, and time investment. 

These are the certifications that are the highest respected in the industry and will allow you to teach at the most gyms and studios. 

My Recommendation: ACE Fitness Group Fitness Certification [Cost: $285; occasionally offers discounts]

This certification will allow you to teach most group fitness class types. It tends to be the base certification that is universally required and then you’ll need to stack a cycling certification on top. ACE Fitness is arguably the most respected certification in the industry. I have never seen a gym or studio that does not accept an ACE Fitness certification. (The only time I’ve seen this is if the studio has their own proprietary training program, but even then the ACE Fitness certification is a “nice to have”.) 

If you opt for the ACE Fitness certification, then you can purchase the indoor cycling instructor certification separately and select your preference. You may be able to get an in-person certification class, which is my recommendation that you’ll see below. 

Why did I choose ACE Fitness? When I completed UCLA’s Fitness Leadership Program, the master instructor recommended ACE Fitness, further validating that this one is the most well-liked group fitness certification. (FWIW, she recommended NASM for Personal Training certification.) 

What should you expect when getting certified with ACE Fitness? 

  • The Basic (and cheapest!) certification package comes with an online study dashboard, video lectures, the digital textbook, and one practice test. 
  • Keep in mind the exam is “open book,” meaning that you get to take it from home and can have your book in front of you as you complete the test. 
  • And, note the prerequisites: you must be 18+ years old, hold a current CPR and AED certification, and have a high school diploma (or the equivalent) 
  • Once you pass your test, you will not have to take another test to remain certified, unless you let your current certification expire. 

Cheapest: AFAA Indoor Cycle + Group Fitness Instructor Certification Combo [Cost: $449]

AFAA is also a great option to become a certified cycling instructor, and might be slightly cheaper, since you combine the AFAA group fitness certification with the indoor cycle certification. Keep in mind that this one is completely online and does not offer an in-person training option. 

Honorable Mention: NASM

NASM is the third most-popular fitness leadership certification. However, they specialize in personal training certificates. If you go to their website, they partner with AFAA and you will be purchasing the AFAA group fitness certification program. Worth noting here since you will likely see the NASM brand come up frequently in the fitness industry. 

An Important Note on Group Fitness Certifications

As you research the types of group fitness certifications, keep in mind that every two years you will be required to complete 20 hours of Continuing Education Credits (CECs). One way you can earn these credits is by getting additional certifications (like a cycling certification ;)). 

So, if you’re on the path to get both a group fitness certification and an indoor cycling instructor certification, I recommend getting your group fitness certification first and then the cycle one, so that you can count the cycle instructor training as part of your required CECs. 

Step 4: Get Your Certification to Become an Indoor Cycling Instructor

Now that you have your group fitness certification, you’ll also need a cycle-specific certification to teach classes. The good news is:

  1. Some indoor cycling certifications DO NOT require any continuing education credits (CECs), so once you complete the course, you’re all set. 
  2. Like I just mentioned, you will receive continuing education credits (CECs) for your primary group fitness certification (see above) when you complete a cycle certification program. (Kill two birds!) 

Cheapest for In-person Training: Schwinn Indoor Cycling Power Certification [Cost: $159 – $229]

I recommend taking an in-person indoor cycling certification program, if possible. You’ll get more hands-on feedback, and there’s nothing that replaces that in-person riding and teaching experience. 

The Schwinn Indoor Cycle program is owned by Core Health & Fitness. Note this is not a certification to teach “rhythm rides”. However, this will teach you proper bike fit, cycling science, class design, music, communication skills, and motivation techniques. 

This is the cycle certification that I completed, and I’ve been very happy with it. (You can read my Schwinn Indoor Cycle certification review here.

If you can’t find an in-person training option on their website schedule, you can also consider signing up for the Schwinn Indoor Cycle training at either IDEA World or a SCW Mania convention. These training sessions will usually be held a day or two before the conference, so you can extend your trip for an extra day and get certified. (Bonus: if you want to attend a fitness conference on the cheap, sign up as a volunteer. You’ll get all of the CECs you need, and will pay a mere fraction of the ticket price to attend. Some may even offer volunteers discounts on the certifications.) 

As a last resort, there’s always the option to sign up for the Schwinn online course

What to expect with the in-person Schwinn Indoor Cycling Power Certification: 

  • It’s a one-day, 9-hour training that takes place inside a indoor cycling room. You can usually grab a step, chair, or ball to sit on when you’re not on the bike. Just know you’ll be in that room for a while, so make yourself comfortable and bring snacks. 
  • You will likely only ride 2-3 times throughout the day, and it won’t feel like a full workout. I was really worried I would feel self conscious about my fitness level and that everyone there would be very fit. The attendees in my training actually had a wide range of fitness levels, and sometimes even the “most fit” people in the room would take it easy during the ride. There’s no pressure to impress anyone!  
  • At the end, you’ll get a comprehensive manual, five complete class design plans, and a certificate of completion. 

Alternative for In-person Training: Spinning® Certification [Cost $355; $255 with code CERT2023] 

Spinning® is another well-respected program in the fitness industry. It’s owned by MAD DOGG ATHLETICS. The price is a bit higher than Schwinn Indoor Cycle; however, it may be worth considering if there are no local Schwinn trainings in your area. 

Also worth noting that the Spinning® certification requires CECs every two years, which is different from the Schwinn Indoor Cycle training (that does not expire). Over the course of your career, it will likely be cheaper to get certified via Schwinn since you won’t have to pay for CECs every two years. 

Best to Combine With the Group Fitness Certification: AFAA Indoor Cycle + Group Fitness Instructor Certification Combo [Cost: $449]

(Mentioned above.) 

Step 5: Practice and Plan Your Audition 

Before your indoor cycling instructor audition, you’ll want to do a few things: 

Take a couple indoor cycling classes at the gym or studio where you’ll be auditioning. You need to know what is the style of classes that are taught there. Are they more rhythm rides or traditional cycle? Do they play EDM or rock? Are they 60 minutes or 45 minutes long? What are the instructors like? Do they have big personalities? Are they diverse? You want to keep these things in mind when you plan your audition to show the hiring manager that you can fit in with this teaching style. 

Taking classes at multiple studios and gyms nearby can get expensive. Blergh! 

First, consider signing up for a free trial. You can likely test out at least one class that way. 

Second, ask the director for a free pass to help you prepare your audition. Some directors will let you attend a few classes as you get to know the studio or gym. 

Third, consider an option like ClassPass, which allows you to pay an affordable rate per class and cancel at any time. That way, you can easily cancel your membership as soon as you get hired. 

Build your audition program. In addition to understanding the style of the gym or studio, you also want to showcase your personality and uniqueness. Think about ways to show off your strengths while also adapting to the personality of the studio. You can check out my recent indoor cycling class routine and playlist I created for an audition here.

Perform your audition on a bike, ideally in front of a few participants. If you are a regular in a cycling class already, ask the instructor if you can teach the warm up or part of your routine during their class for practice. Practicing out loud, on a bike, in front of an audience (of at least one person) is a non-negotiable. No matter how much practice you think you get sitting on your bed and coaching in the shower, it does not compare to the real thing. I promise it will level up your audition. 

Questions or need advice on becoming an indoor cycling instructor? Please send me a note at michelle@groupxfitnesstips.com. Good luck, and happy cycling! 

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How Do You Create an Indoor Cycling Class Routine?

How to Create an Indoor Cycling Class Routine

If you’ve just become an indoor cycling instructor, are moderately new to being a cycle fitness instructor, or maybe are just feeling like you’re in a teaching rut, you might be wondering: how do you create a indoor cycling class routine? Quite frankly: where do you start? 

There have been plenty of times where I got halfway through picking songs only to realize that they didn’t line up with the exercises I had in mind. Have faith that this will get easier with experience, but cut yourself some slack in the beginning—and save fragmented class and song ideas in a notebook for the future. 

Here are step-by-step instructions for how to create an indoor cycling class routine. 

Step 1: Pick a Theme

Pick a theme that will be a foundation to build your class around. Let’s cover themes to consider, and remember this is not an exhaustive list. Sometimes teaching the same class for years and years calls for an out-of-the-box theme idea. 

Playlist theme. 

Pick a theme based on the songs you’ll play. This could be a genre, like doing all classic rock, or it could be a random theme, like any song that mentions dessert. To that, you may wonder: are there enough songs?! Well, to start, we’ve got Sugar by Maroon 5, Cherry Pie by Warrant, Watermelon Sugar by Harry Styles, Candyman by Christina Aguilera, Sugar, We’re Goin Down by Fall Out Boy, and so on. 

Note: I tend to avoid sticking with just one genre in a playlist. Typically, I find folks get bored if I play too many songs from the same genre. You’ll likely have one or two go-to genres that get played the most, but mixing it up is a good way to surprise and delight with a song that’s unexpected. 

Exercise theme. 

There are times when I’m planning my class, and I find that I’m craving sprints, so that’s what I plan. 

It really can be as simple as that. No need to overcomplicate it. 

I’ll choose where I want my sprints and then sprinkle in other types of exercises to balance the intense work. In these scenarios, I’ll choose my music last, and it tends to be pretty quick. 

Motivational theme. 

This one’s a bit trickier, so stay with me. You can develop a class entirely around a motivational cue or mental task. For example, maybe you want to create a class around perseverance. You could instruct participants through a long, triple-song climb while playing songs that motivate and inspire them to keep with it. The cherry on top? You could incorporate cues and quips about persevering and sticking with the effort in class and out. 

How to Choose Your Theme

If you’re a beginning instructor, I’d keep the theme as simple and straightforward as possible. Here’s why. 

  1. It’s easier to teach. There’s less explanation required on your part. Just get the riders all pedaling forward and you’re set. Then, you can spend that extra time preparing for what’s next and sharing your safety cues. 
  1. It’s easier to follow. Participants don’t need an advanced degree to understand what your class is about. There is absolutely NO link between a complex class and a good workout. My most simple lesson plan for a 45-minute class includes a three-song climb and tabata sprints, do that three times through. It’s a hit with every class, and one I pull out when I’m subbing for an unfamiliar group. 
  1. It’s easier to plan. Especially when you’re new to planning classes, make it easy on yourself and create a simple theme. You have enough to think about with song selection and stuffing the class full of cues. 

Theme Me Up, Scotty

My Star Trek reference would make a great theme. But if you’re not a fan, here are a few other ideas to get your creative juices flowing. 

An example of a playlist theme? Songs about the earth: Ain’t No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye, River by Eminem feat. Ed Sheeran. 

What about an exercise theme? Jumps (in and out of the saddle). 

And, for a motivational theme? Breaking down barriers or obstacles. Plenty of great songs about overcoming challenges to achieve greatness! 

Step 2: Outline the Workout 

Now that you’ve picked your theme, you can start to build the class. I tend to go back and forth between choosing exercises then music. They’re so entangled with each other, that it’s hard to do one without the other. 

For the sake of this book, let’s start with the workout. 

Riding Variations

In case anyone forgot, when taking an indoor cycling class, you’re pedaling on a bike going nowhere. As long as the participants are set up with proper form and resistance, there’s not much else to it. 

Classes are pretty standardized, since there are only a few levers you can change while maintaining safe form. 

  • Seated or standing
  • Resistance 
  • Speed

Let’s take a quick look at what we have to work with for each of these riding variations. 

Riding Variation #1: Seated or Standing

Your class can safely ride in and out of the saddle (also known as standing and sitting). As you cue these two exercises, make sure to keep in mind proper riding technique and form cues. 

I’ve sometimes seen a third option where riders are more upright in what instructors call a jog. From a safe form perspective, as long as your hips are back over your ankles and your spine is in neutral posture, you can hinge at the hip joint as much or as little as you want. This would give you a range from an almost-upright posture to a deeper, hinged position. Keep in mind that bringing your upper body low and closer to the handlebars helps to really fire up those hamstrings and achieve maximum power output. 

Just think about when you were riding a bike as a kid. When you wanted to sprint to catch up with the big neighbor kid, you would hinge forward so that your torso was close to your thighs to engage the back of your legs so you and your bike could fly down the road. 

Riding Variation #2: Resistance

In my humble opinion, resistance is the hidden gem of riding variations. Contrary to popular belief, speed is not the only way to get out of breath. Think of it this way. If you are riding on an empty wheel, there’s a good chance you might never reach your peak intensity. Rather, you need a combination of resistance and speed. Open your horizons and play with a breathless interval that does not require maximum speed, but instead a mix of heavy, heavy resistance and speed. And, of course, vice versa. 

Riding Variation #3: Speed

We’ve got the need for speed…between exactly 60 to 110 RPMs. 

What’s RPM?! 

RPM stands for rotations per minute and it’s just that: the number of rotations your pedal is doing in one minute. It’s the metric we use to gauge speed. 

You can measure RPM the old-fashioned way—hover your hand over your knee and count how many times your knee touches your hand in a 10-second increment, then multiply that number by six. 

If your natural response to math is ewwwww, yuck, then you’re in luck. Most bikes nowadays have a monitor that tracks RPM and a whole bunch of other stuff. 

How Do You Make a Unique Class With Only Three Riding Variations? 

That, my friend, is both the fun and frightening part of teaching indoor cycling. 

It’s very easy to plan a standard class, you choose a resistance level, speed, and whether folks are seated or standing. But it’s hard to lead an indoor cycling class that’s balanced, entertaining, and special. That’s where cues and class framework come into play. 

Say, for example, you want to introduce a climb. The bike doesn’t change, the class doesn’t change. Sure, you ask your participants to find a heavy resistance, but it takes visual and motivational cues to create the feeling of being on an incline. 

Make Sure You Have the Basic Pieces of an Indoor Cycling Class Routine Covered. 

When you asked, “how do you create an indoor cycling class routine?” you may have simply wanted the following information. 

In a cycling class, you need to include the following three parts: 

The Warm-up

First, you must start with a warm-up. Studies show that warm-ups will help prevent injuries. It also gives you a chance to orient your riders to what your class will be like. 

Pro tip: Do not pick a song with a ton of words and/or songs that people like to sing along to. They will not listen to a word you say, and, arguably, the warm-up is the most important time for riders to listen to you. 

The Cool Down 

You also need to make sure you finish with a cool down. Give riders a chance to slow their heart rate down before coming to a complete stop. 

The Middle: Using Sequences For the Ultimate Class Structure

If you want to take your cycling classes from, “it’ll do,” to, “it’ll kick my ass,” you have to break your class up into sequences. No matter what your teaching style is, using sequences to map out your class will drastically improve the rider experience. 

You can see how I create indoor cycling class routines with sequences here

What are sequences? 

A sequence is a group of exercises that you do over and over again until class is over. For example, a sequence can be four songs long, done three times through. You can also do a sequence that’s three songs long, and do it four times through; or five songs long, and do it twice. (Tack one of these on to a 5-minute warmup and 5-minute cool down and you’ve got yourself an hour-long class.) 

The Skeleton of a Sequenced Class

Warmup 

(Sequence 1) 

  • Exercise A 
  • Exercise B 
  • Exercise C 
  • Exercise D 

(Sequence 2)

  • Exercise A
  • Exercise B 
  • Exercise C
  • Exercise D 

(Sequence 3)

  • Exercise A 
  • Exercise B 
  • Exercise C 
  • Exercise D 

Cool Down 

Why are sequences the greatest gift to indoor cycling instructors? 

Sequences are the best invention since gluten-free bread, because they drastically cut the amount of cueing you have to do. Think about it. For every new exercise you introduce, you have to gab on and on about the exercise, duration, resistance, speed, and effort level—–and that doesn’t even begin to cover proper form and motivational cues. When you teach the same set of exercises throughout class, you only have to explain each routine in depth once at the beginning of class. After that, you can do a quick refresh when the exercise comes back around and the riders will know what you’re talking about. This is particularly helpful: 

  • When the microphone is not working and your voice is getting hoarse from yelling
  • If participants are having trouble hearing or understanding you (which you won’t always know)
  • When you want to introduce more complex exercises, like tracking distance for time using the monitor. 

Want to check out a few sample indoor cycling class routines? Here are some of my faves: 

Wahoo! You’re that much closer to finalizing your indoor cycling class lesson plan. Now, all that’s left is the fun stuff, like picking the music and the cues. 

Know anyone else wondering how do you create a indoor cycling class routine? Please share this post.  

Enjoy! 🙂 

Disclaimer: You must be formally certified and insured in order to teach an indoor cycling class. The above does not take the place of a indoor cycling certification and formal training. 

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How to Prepare to Teach an Indoor Cycling Class

How I Prepare to Teach an Indoor Cycling Class

Here’s one thing I can promise you: you’ll never regret spending time preparing for your indoor cycling class. It’s true. I’ve had a handful of times where I wished I listened to my playlist just one more time before teaching it. But, your time is precious, so here’s how I prepare to teach an indoor cycling class without spending hours agonizing over it. 

I Start By Planning The Indoor Cycling Class Routine.

Let’s start with the obvious: first you have to create your indoor cycling routine. I go into all the details for how to create an indoor cycling routine here. The short answer is I usually pick a theme, and then build the songs and exercises around that. You can start however you’d like just make sure you build a routine that’s effective and safe. 

How I Prepare to Teach an Indoor Cycling Class: Listening to My Playlist. 

Music is a critical component of the indoor cycling class experience. It helps set the mood, maintains motivation, and energizes participants throughout the session. When crafting my playlists, I made it a point to select tracks that harmonized with the pace and intensity of my routines.

Here’s where you really should not cut corners: make sure you listen to the whole playlist in its entirety. This is where I usually slip up. If I’m in a rush, I will not listen to the songs all the way through and I won’t realize until it’s too late that there’s a slow ending or an expletive.  

I usually will play my playlist as I’m dropping my kids off at school during the week. It’s become a wonderful way to start my day, and gets me familiar with the songs. 

My Most Critical Indoor Cycling Instructor Tip: Practicing Out Loud.

Repeat after me: the first time you say something out loud, it will not be smooth. Do not think that practicing in your head is enough before teaching. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable in your own home and practice out loud. Practice saying the warm-up cues, practice explaining proper form. Practice all of it. Eventually, you’ll teach enough classes where you do not have to practice. But, if you’re teaching something new, practice out loud. 

Consider Choosing Clothes You’ve Already Worn. 

As an instructor, my appearance is important, but it’s equally vital to be comfortable. If you’re going to teach a new class where there’s so much to manage at once—the playlist, the choreography cues, the safety cues, the timing—you do not want to also be feeling insecure about what you’re wearing. 

I pick clothes that are tried and true. I know that they’ll hold up during a tough workout and they’ll keep me looking professional and assertive. I do not wear something new for the first time. I’ve accidentally worn see-through pants to teach before, and so I try to go with what I know will avoid that embarrassment. 

In a Rut With How You Prepare to Teach an Indoor Cycling Class? Always Be Taking Other Classes.

Before I assumed the role of an indoor cycling class instructor, I made sure to be an active participant in other fitness classes of all formats. This step was crucial in shaping how I prepare to teach an indoor cycling class effectively. Whenever I need inspiration or help getting out of a rut, taking other classes provides me with invaluable insights into different teaching styles, class formats, and the expectations of my future students.

Participating in other classes helps me to watch celebrated instructors in action. I pay close attention to their cues, their music choices, and their ability to motivate the class. This first-hand experience not only enhances my personal fitness and endurance but also gives me a profound understanding of what works best in an indoor cycling class.

Being an effective instructor goes far beyond certifications and cycling proficiency. By actively participating in other classes, meticulously planning my routines, fine-tuning my playlists, practicing my cues, and selecting comfortable workout attire, I can step into that cycle studio with confidence, knowing I prepared appropriately. Follow the above, and you can, too. 

Good luck! 🙂 

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What to Bring to a Fitness Convention

What to Bring to a Fitness Convention

If you’re looking for a fitness convention or health and fitness expo, there are a ton of great ones coming up this summer: IDEA World Fitness Convention (July 19-23), Zumba Instructor Convention (July 27-30) and SCW Mania Convention (July 29-30) to name a few. You can find an extensive list of upcoming events here. I attended SCW Mania in California earlier this year, and the experience was amazing — I get giddy just thinking about it! But leading up to the event, I always get nervous about what to bring to a fitness convention.

For example, I’d hate to be drenched in sweat at 8 a.m. only to realize I have to sit in my clothes for the rest of the day, since I forgot a back-up outfit. Now that I have quite a few conferences under my belt, I thought I’d share a few items that have been lifesavers for me when I attend conferences.

Here’s my list of what to bring to a fitness convention.

Outfit to pack for a fitness convention

  1. A back-up outfit (including an extra sports bra, shoes and hair ties)

Like I mentioned above, if you do attend a session with an intense workout, it can be nice to put on a clean outfit afterwards or around lunch time if your day is full of exercising. And, if you start to realize your shoes are uncomfortable or your hair tie breaks, it’s worth it to have back-ups with you at the fitness convention.

  1. A hardback notebook or clipboard

This is a lesser-known packing item that can be so helpful during the sessions. In every session I’ve attended, I sat in a chair or on the floor while the presenter went through their slides. Without a hard surface to use, your notes can easily end up illegible. So, I like to bring a sturdy notebook with me to write on or act as my “desk” if there’s a handout.

  1. Pens and highlighters

Make sure to bring pens to take notes. I always like to have a backup, because my pens never cease to run out at the wrong time. And, you might want to bring a highlighter, as well, if the presenter will be passing out worksheets or if you like to highlight your notes.

  1. Snacks

If you’re like me, hunger can strike at any time. That means being ready at a moment’s notice to grab a snack. I like to have a few snacks handy that I can eat whenever. I recommend packing snacks that you can eat pretty easily (and sneakily) during a workshop. I always start to turn red when I’m the girl in the back of class ripping open a bag of pretzels or shoveling trail mix in my face and spilling everywhere. My go-to snack is the granola bar, because it’s so easy to eat and so tasty.

What to pack for a fitness convention

  1. Lunch

Most conventions will have food options available to purchase at the convention. Since I’m on a budget (saving for my wedding!), I try to pack my own lunch. You can pretty easily pack a sandwich and stick a ice pack in the bag to keep it cool until lunch time. I’ve even brought microwaveable lunches in my bag with an ice pack and used the public microwave at the snack bar. This lets me eat a decent meal to make sure I have enough energy to power through the day. Consider calling the convention center ahead of time to see what the food options are.

  1. Deodorant, face wash/baby wipes

If you break out easily or feel yucky hanging out sweaty for too long, consider bringing toiletries to help freshen up at lunch time. Deodorant is a must, and also consider a face wash or toilet to keep you feeling fresh.

  1. The convention schedule, map and session handouts

These are the three items you’ll need to successfully navigate the convention. I always like to have the whole schedule in front of me, in case I decide last minute I want to switch sessions. And, you’ll want to make sure you have a map to figure out how to get around from session to session.

  1. Phone and extra charger

If you live tweet an event or use your phone to take notes and pictures, it’s always a good idea to bring a phone charger or portable battery charger.

  1. Sweatshirt

The rooms at a fitness convention are notorious for being cold, especially after you stop moving. Make sure to bring a sweatshirt or two to make sure you’re staying comfortable. Sometimes it’s nice to have two different long sleeve items, so that if one gets really sweaty you have another clean one for later.

If you’re going to a fitness convention this year, hope you have SO much fun! Please let me know if you have anything to add to this list, or other advice for convention attendees.

For more tips, check out the group exercise ideas page.

And, let’s connect on Twitter @GroupXMich.

 

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Indoor Cycling Motivational Routine and Playlist: Screw the Haters

Screw the Haters Indoor Cycling Routine and Playlist

Some of the best motivational fuel for my indoor cycling routines comes from the times when I was rejected, defeated, dismissed, or otherwise overlooked for something I was working for. Channeling the pain of losing helps me to work harder.

Earlier this year, I was laid off from my corporate job. Do you know what I did after I found out? I got on my indoor bike and sprinted as fast as I could muster through “Sk8er Boi,” of all songs. Then, I cried.

But, without that failure, I would have never had the guts to start my own business–something I’ve been secretly dreaming about since having my kids.

Like they say, it’s always darkest before the dawn.

In this ride, I’ll take you on a similar journey. We’ll laugh about some of the goofy losers that (thankfully!) turned us down, we’ll metaphorically scream with the pain of that rejection, and then we’ll say “Bye, Bye Bye,” to anyone who didn’t see us for our true worth.

Reminder: I like to teach my indoor cycling classes in a series of exercises that we do 2-4 times through. I pick a couple exercises to make up the series, and we stick to it throughout the class. That way, participants know what to expect, so they can go big when they’re supposed to and not hold back for fear of another interval around the corner.

The Series (50-minute Workout)

Do the following exercises, three times through.

  • Climb 1: You’ll go through a three-song climb. Cue how you normally would. I start seated in the first song, then end the third song standing with very heavy resistance.
  • Climb 2: see above.
  • Climb 3: End standing with a very heavy resistance. Can finish the climb with a 15-second breathless interval.
  • Breathless sprints @ chorus. Option to maintain the resistance from the song prior if you want to make it even harder. Then, at the chorus, add resistance and speed to find breathless intensity.

“Screw the Haters” Indoor Cycling Routine and Playlist

Series Song / Workout Song
Warm up “Gives You Hell,” The All-American Rejects
Climb 1“Heartbreaker,” Pat Benatar
Climb 2“Bad Blood,” Taylor Swift
Climb 3“You Broke Up With Me,” Walker Hayes
Breathless sprints @ chorus“Sk8er Boi,” Avril Lavigne
Climb 1“The Door,” Teddy Swims
Climb 2“Leave It All Behind,” Cult To Follow
Climb 3“Fighter,” Christina Aguilera
Breathless sprints @ chorus“Since U Been Gone,” Kelly Clarkson
Climb 1“So What,” P!nk
Climb 2“Here I Go Again,” Whitesnake (start at 1:10)
Climb 3“Bye Bye Bye,” *NSYNC
Breathless sprints @ chorus“Thnks fr th Mmrs,” Fall Out Boy
Cool Down“Survivor,” Destiny’s Child

Want to hear the songs? Check out my Spotify playlist here or here:

Catch ya next week!

Disclaimer: Readers who rely on this information do so at their own risk. Instructors must be properly certified, insured, and have the music licensing in order to teach a spin class. GroupXFitnessTips.com is not liable for any injuries or negligence that occurs.

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The Best Motivational Workout Songs & Prompts to Push Yourself Harder

Motivational Workout Songs

I see you looking for motivational workout songs. You’re trying to find something that is going to inspire you to put on your fitness clothes and get moving. Well, the time is now. Go put on that spandex. I’ll wait. When you’re ready, come back and follow one of my seven exercise playlists and motivational prompts below. 

These prompts will help you take your workout from average to exceptional. You’re already halfway there—finding motivational workout songs is a huge piece of getting inspired. The second half is to tap into your mental toughness. You’re fully capable of pushing yourself to do your best with this workout, and these prompts will help you. 

How does it work? 

Simple. Read the prompt and take a moment to think about how you can apply it to your workout. Then, throughout the exercises, come back to the prompt and use it as motivation to increase your intensity level. 

Enjoy! 

Playlist #1: Traditional Motivational Workout Songs

You can find these songs all across the internet, but for good reason: they work. These are songs meant to inspire you to work harder, lift heavier, and run farther. 

Prompt: What’s your fitness mantra? 

A mantra is a word or phrase you can easily repeat to help you concentrate and focus your mind. Think of a simple mantra related to your fitness goal(s) that you can repeat to yourself throughout your workout to help you work harder towards achieving your goals. 

Some examples: 

  • One word: faster
  • Longer than yesterday
  • My best
  • A long, happy life 
  • Booty, booty, booty rockin’ everywhere (Can a mantra also be a song lyric??) 

The Motivational Workout Songs for Playlist #1

  1. “Lose Yourself,” Eminem
  2. “Till I Collapse,” Eminem, Nate Dogg
  3. “Love Myself,” Hailee Steinfeld
  4. “Messiah – Dirty South Remix,” I See MONSTAS, Dirty South
  5. “Thunder,” Imagine Dragons
  6. “Jungle,” X Ambassadors, Jamie N Commons
  7. “The Champion,” Carrie Underwood, Ludacris
  8. “Out Here Grindin’,” DJ Khaled
  9. “Numb / Encore,” JAY-Z, Linkin Park
  10. “Turn Down for What,” DJ Snake, Lil Jon
  11. “She’s Kinda Hot,” 5 Seconds of Summer
  12. “Sweat – Remix,” Snoop Dogg, David Guetta
  13. “Remember the Name,” Fort Minor, Styles of Beyond
  14. “Lose My Breath,” Destiny’s Child
  15. “Way Down We Go,” KALEO
  16. “Go Hard or Go Home,” Wiz Khalifa, Iggy Azalea
  17. “You Shook Me All Night Long,” AC/DC
  18. “Shots,” LMFAO, Lil Jon
  19. “The Other Side,” Jason Derulo
  20. “Whatever It Takes,” Imagine Dragons
  21. “We Are the Champions

Catch the full playlist on Spotify here, or listen here: 

Playlist #2: Motivational Workout Songs That Build Community

If these past few years have taught me anything, it’s that community is so critical to our well being and happiness. For most of us, community is something that we need to work hard to build each and every day—it doesn’t come easily. This is a great prompt for helping build your own sense of community and give back to the greater good in a small way. 

Prompt: Dedicate your workout to someone else. 

Think about the folks in your life that may need some good energy sent their way. Maybe it’s someone that’s struggling with an illness, a challenging job, or a difficult relationship. Maybe it’s a friend that you have been meaning to text and just haven’t found the time—but, dang it, you hope they’re crushing life. 

Pick one person and mentally dedicate your workout to them. Maybe they don’t have the time to workout, but you can workout for them. You can give it your all in your workout as a way to send positive vibes, healing energy, and well wishes their way. 

The Motivational Workout Songs for Playlist #2

  1. “Came Here for Love,” Sigala, Ella Eyre
  2. “Happier,” Marshmello, Bastille
  3. “Are You Gonna Go My Way,” Lenny Kravitz
  4. “Mama,” Jonas Blue, William Singe
  5. “Rise Up,” Andra Day
  6. “You Make My Dreams (Come True),” Daryl Hall & John Oates
  7. “Don’t Let Me Down,” The Chainsmokers, Daya
  8. “I’ll Be There for You,” The Rembrandts
  9. “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” Guns N’ Roses
  10. “Never Let You Go,” Third Eye Blind
  11. “Worth It,” Fifth Harmony, Kid Ink
  12. “I Want You,” Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
  13. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” Whitney Houston 
  14. “Buy My Mom a House,” Carolina Rial
  15. “Me & U,” Cassie
  16. “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” Drake, Majid Jordan
  17. “Feels Like Home,” Sigala, Fuse ODG, Sean Paul, Kent Jones
  18. “Who Says You Can’t Go Home,” Bon Jovi, Jennifer Nettles
  19. “Home,” Phillip Phillips
  20. “Got My Mind Set On You,” George Harrison
  21. “Together Again,” Janet Jackson
  22. “Love Will Keep Us Together,” Captain & Tennille
  23. “We are Family,” Sister Sledge
  24. “Family Affair,” Mary J. Blige
  25. “Better Together,” Jack Johnson
  26. “Lean on Me,” Bill Withers
  27. “Come Together,” The Beatles
  28. “We’re All In This Together,” High School Musical Cast, Disney
  29. “I Won’t Give Up,” Jason Mraz
  30. “A Thousand Miles,” Vanessa Carlton
  31. “You Are Not Alone,” Michael Jackson
  32. “She Will Be Loved,” Maroon 5 
  33. “Cheetah Sisters,” The Cheetah Girls
  34. “I’ll Be Missing You,” Diddy, Faith Evans, 112

Catch the full playlist on Spotify here, or listen here: 

Playlist #3: Motivational Workout Songs Inspired By Your Haters

I have some of my best workouts when I channel my anger into my exercises. We’ve all had moments where we were overlooked for a job or opportunity, ignored by someone we admire, or felt like we didn’t quite get what we deserved. Those are great moments to use for motivation when you work out. 

Prompt: What past rejection or failure can you use for today’s motivation? 

Here’s one of mine: at my big girl job (read: not fitness related), I used to work for a company that insisted that I did not deserve a promotion no matter how hard I worked or what my results showed. Fast forward two years, I’m now even a step above that desired promotion and leading a small team. 

I love to use that initial rejection as motivation. Channeling that memory makes me work harder in my workout—and, frankly, in my life. 

Find a memory that really grinds your gears and use it as motivation to push yourself harder. 

The Motivational Workout Songs for Playlist #3

  1. “Sk8er Boi,” Avril Lavigne
  2. “So What,” P!nk
  3. “Thnks fr th Mmrs,” Fall Out Boy
  4. “Gives You Hell,” The All-American Rejects
  5. “I Hate Everything About You,” Three Days Grace
  6. “Here I Go Again,” Whitesnake
  7. “My Own Worst Enemy,” Lit
  8. “You Broke Up With Me,” Walker Hayes
  9. “Another One Bites The Dust,” Queen
  10. “Bye Bye Bye,” *NSYNC
  11. “Problem,” Ariana Grande, Iggy Azalea
  12. “Freaks,” Timmy Trumpet, Savage
  13. “Love Myself,” Hailee Steinfeld
  14. “Attention,” Charlie Puth
  15. “Miss Independent,” Kelly Clarkson
  16. “Heartbreaker,” Pat Benatar
  17. “The Only Good Thing (You Ever Said Was Goodbye),” Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
  18. “Run-Around,” Blues Traveler
  19. “Leave It All Behind,” Cult to Follow
  20. “Don’t Cha,” The Pussycat Dolls, Busta Rhymes
  21. “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” Pat Benatar
  22. “Ain’t Your Mama,” Jennifer Lopez
  23. “Shake It Off,” Taylor Swift
  24. “Since U Been Gone,” Kelly Clarkson
  25. “What Have You Done For Me Lately,” Janet Jackson
  26. “Sorry Not Sorry,” Demi Lovato
  27. “Independence Day,” 5 Seconds of Summer
  28. “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” Taylor Swift
  29. “Mama Said Knock You Out,” LL COOL J
  30. “Fighter,” Christina Aguilera
  31. “Bad Blood,” Taylor Swift
  32. “Best Days of Your Life,” Kellie Pickler
  33. “Forget You,” CeeLo Green
  34. “Survivor,” Destiny’s Child

Catch the full playlist on Spotify here, or listen here: