With the initial burst of New Year’s resolutions fading, maintaining workout motivation can be challenging. Whether you’re hitting the treadmill, cycling, or lifting weights, the right music can be a game-changer. payoffsong.com is here to supercharge your exercise routine with an essential workout playlist. This isn’t just a random collection of tracks; it’s a curated mix of proven crowd-pleasers and hidden gems from recent years and beyond, designed to keep you energized and focused. From hip-hop anthems to classic rock staples and electrifying EDM beats, we’ve got a diverse range to fuel every workout style. Get ready to discover the best Workout Songs to maximize your performance and make every sweat session count.
The Science of Workout Songs: Why Music Matters
“Exercising, whether on a treadmill, bike, or going for a run, is often a solitary activity. Having an artist’s voice accompanying you can be incredibly motivating,” explains Shanon Cook, Spotify’s trends expert, highlighting the undeniable link between music and workout intensity. Music isn’t just background noise; it’s a powerful tool that can help you find your rhythm, set your pace, and push past your limits. Motivational lyrics, driving beats, and songs that evoke positive memories all contribute to music’s ability to keep you on track and engaged in your fitness journey.
We’ve meticulously sifted through countless tracks to compile the definitive list of 50 workout songs guaranteed to elevate your heart rate and boost your motivation, whether you’re in a high-energy fitness class or working out solo. As Cook aptly puts it, “Everyone is different, and personal music preferences vary greatly during workouts.” However, certain genres, like high-energy hip-hop, have near-universal appeal when it comes to exercise. Songs like Eminem’s “Till I Collapse,” which has consistently topped Spotify’s workout charts for years, Kanye West’s “Stronger,” and the timeless classic “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor remain workout playlist staples for good reason. But we’re also excited to introduce you to some unexpected gems – a Ricky Martin deep cut, some vibrant Brazilian baile funk, and even a high-energy K-pop track – that might just become your new workout favorites. So, plug in your headphones, crank up the volume, and prepare to transform your workout experience with these top workout songs.
These are the 50 best workout songs to power your fitness journey:
50. “FU,” Miley Cyrus feat. French Montana
Miley Cyrus’s 2013 album Bangerz was a groundbreaking fusion of genres, seamlessly blending country, EDM, pop, and rap. Cyrus’s distinctive personality and powerful vocals are the common thread throughout. On “FU,” featuring rapper French Montana, she unleashes raw energy and attitude. The result is a defiant anthem set against a backdrop of gritty dubstep beats, perfectly designed to ignite your workout and get you moving with attitude.
49. “I Don’t Care,” Ed Sheeran feat. Justin Bieber
“We at a party we don’t want to be at” might not scream workout motivation initially. However, the insistent, almost hypnotic drumbeat in Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber’s 2019 collaboration is undeniably effective. Sheeran’s consistent chart dominance is no accident, and this track proves why. The underlying message of enduring an unwelcome situation resonates perfectly with pushing through a tough workout: just keep going, persevere, and you’ll reach your fitness goals.
48. “My Oh My,” Camila Cabello feat. DaBaby
Camila Cabello has a proven knack for crafting incredibly catchy Latin-infused melodies, as evidenced by her chart-topping hits “Havana” and “Señorita.” “My Oh My” takes a slightly different approach, being a bit slower yet equally compelling. Its dark, brooding atmosphere, characterized by an echoing chorus and Cabello’s intense vocal delivery, creates a focused energy. The addition of DaBaby’s energetic rhymes injects an extra dose of dynamism, making it a track with the perfect kick to keep you pumping through your reps.
47. “Raising Hell,” Kesha feat. Big Freedia
Kesha’s recent musical era is defined by pure exuberance, and “Raising Hell” is a prime example. She’s clearly having a blast on this track, set to a bouncy bassline and amplified by Big Freedia’s dynamic presence. Kesha’s signature chanted chorus makes it incredibly easy to sing along to, providing that extra motivational boost when you need it most during a challenging workout session.
46. “Blood, Sweat & Tears,” Ava Max
Albanian-American pop sensation Ava Max has a knack for creating instantly catchy songs, as demonstrated by her breakthrough hit “Sweet But Psycho.” “Blood, Sweat & Tears” cleverly repurposes a playground chant, transforming it into a powerful, driving anthem. The song’s title and energetic rhythm perfectly mirror the dedication and effort required for a rigorous workout, making it an ideal track to push through your limits.
45. “God Is a Dancer,” Tiësto and Mabel
English singer Mabel lends her soulful vocals to this high-tempo electronic track from renowned Dutch DJ and producer Tiësto. The lyrics “Keep that pace… take it step by step,” are remarkably fitting for any workout, emphasizing consistency and progress. The song’s steady rhythm and uplifting melody make “God Is a Dancer” an excellent choice for maintaining momentum throughout your gym session.
44. “I Win,” Lethal Bizzle feat. Skepta
British grime artist Lethal Bizzle’s confident anthem “I Win” explodes with energy from the very first beat and maintains that intensity throughout. If positive self-talk were the key to workout success, then “I Win” would be the only song you’d ever need to achieve every fitness goal. Its sheer confidence and driving rhythm are incredibly motivating.
43. “Don’t Stop the Music,” Rihanna
“Don’t Stop the Music” was released in 2007, but it remains a timeless gift from Rihanna. Intense from the outset, the directness of its powerful bassline resonates across genres and workout styles. As the song builds towards its massive chorus, it becomes impossible not to synchronize your movements to its infectious beat, making it a perfect workout companion.
42. “…Ready For It?,” Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s 2017 self-referential album Reputation was packed with intensely anthemic pop tracks. Among them, “…Ready For It?” stands out with its massive drop, relentlessly driving beat, and soaring chorus, making it the ultimate workout anthem from the album. It’s perfect for pushing your limits and adding intensity to your exercise routine.
41. “Jungle,” X Ambassadors feat. Jamie N Commons
“Jungle” by rock band X Ambassadors and soul singer Jamie N Commons is a modern update to Queen’s iconic “We Will Rock You.” This bluesy, hand-clapping, foot-stomping track features searing guitar riffs and a reverberating intensity. It sounds like the soundtrack to an epic action movie scene and is guaranteed to inject that same level of energy into your workout.
40. “Mic Drop (Steve Aoki Remix),” BTS
K-pop supergroup BTS has cultivated a massive global fanbase for good reason. Their hits range from heartfelt ballads to intensely powerful tracks like “Mic Drop” from their record-breaking album Love Yourself: Answer. This song seamlessly blends their impressive rapping skills with dynamic dance beats and a dark, catchy edge. Steve Aoki’s remix amplifies the song’s already potent energy. The music video’s sharp choreography is an added source of workout inspiration.
39. “Survivor,” Destiny’s Child
“Survivor,” a timeless Destiny’s Child anthem, is the quintessential workout song when you’re nearing your breaking point. Singing along to “I’m a survivor, I’m not gon’ give up, I’m not gon’ stop, I’m gon’ work harder” provides the ultimate motivational boost. Thank you, Beyoncé, Kelly, and Michelle, for this enduring workout soundtrack staple.
38. “On the Ball,” Bryce Vine
Bryce Vine’s “On the Ball” is exactly what it describes: a breezy, bright, surf-rock-infused celebration of being on top of your game. Vine’s confident delivery over the pop-rap beat makes it the perfect soundtrack for a workout where you want to feel empowered and in control.
37. “BOP,” DaBaby
Rapper DaBaby was a major breakout star of 2019, injecting vibrant energy into every track he featured on with his distinctive, rapid-fire flow. His track “BOP” lives up to its name. Set against a wavering flute melody, DaBaby bursts onto the scene with infectious energy and a beat that compels you to move.
36. “Giant,” Calvin Harris feat. Rag’n’Bone Man
“I am giant, stand up on my shoulders, tell me what you see” – this uplifting refrain is the core of Scottish DJ Calvin Harris’s hit “Giant,” supported by bold horn arrangements and a soulful beat. It’s an empowering anthem perfectly suited for hitting the gym and feeling like you can conquer any challenge.
35. “Work From Home,” Fifth Harmony feat. Ty Dolla $ign
Fifth Harmony may have disbanded, but “Work From Home,” their massive group hit, remains one of the most infectious pop songs of the 2010s. And technically, it’s about “working,” making it even more fitting for a workout soundtrack. Its catchy rhythm and energetic vibe are perfect for keeping you engaged during exercise.
34. “Satisfaction,” Benny Benassi
Italian DJ Benny Benassi’s debut single “Satisfaction” was released in 2002, but its incredibly catchy electronic beat is both innovative and deeply… satisfying. With a chorus that repeatedly urges “Push me,” it’s the ideal sonic encouragement to keep you pushing through your workout.
33. “Trampoline,” SHAED feat. ZAYN
Who would have thought a trampoline could be such a compelling song subject? Indie pop trio SHAED originated the track, later collaborating with Zayn for a remix of their viral hit. The result is a dance-pop song with a prominent downbeat, minimalist production, and intense focus, making it excellent for workouts that require rhythmic movements.
32. “War Paint,” FLETCHER
Viral 2015 hit “War Paint” is a soaring pop anthem that almost forces you to get on your feet. With its bouncy percussion and uplifting chorus, it’s a perfect workout track. “Bring the big guns out,” singer Fletcher commands, “Watch me put my war paint on,” perfectly capturing the mindset of powering through a challenging exercise session.
31. “Stronger,” Kanye West
One of the few songs that explicitly addresses the physical exertion of working out, Kanye West’s iconic hit “Stronger” was essentially created to soundtrack the most demanding moments of your gym time. Its empowering message and driving beat are perfectly synchronized with pushing your physical limits.
30. “Vai Malandra,” Anitta, MC Zaac and Maejor feat. Tropkillaz and DJ Yuri Martins
A powerhouse collaboration of Brazilian artists and one American, led by Anitta, resulted in the baile funk magic of “Vai Malandra.” With its consistent, juicy beat and lyrics that roughly translate to “go on with your bad self,” it’s like a shot of pure, sassy energy directly into your veins, perfect for injecting dynamism into your workout.
29. “No New Friends,” LSD
LSD, the supergroup comprised of pop genius Sia, hit-making DJ Diplo, and producer-singer Labrinth, was destined to create a series of bangers. “No New Friends” from their 2019 project is bold, expansive pop with heavy percussion and a melodic chorus. It’s an ace in the hole for when you need a serious workout pump-up.
28. “Rock It,” Ofenbach
Sometimes, a consistent beat perfectly suited for the treadmill is all you need. That’s precisely what “Rock It” by French DJ duo Ofenbach delivers. Bright and layered, it’s just engaging enough to maintain interest while being insistent enough to help you keep your pace. With “get in the groove” as its central refrain, it’s perfectly on-theme for a workout.
27. “Bruised Not Broken,” Matoma feat. MNEK and Kiana Ledé
For an uplifting boost while putting in work at the gym, look to MNEK. A sought-after pop producer, his own work is inherently anthemic and often centered on self-empowerment. “Bruised Not Broken” perfectly blends syrupy pop sensibilities with club-ready beats, thanks to producer Matoma, and features inspiring lyrical content.
26. “Bring Em Out,” T.I.
Back in 2004, “Bring Em Out” was rapper T.I.’s breakout hit, boosted by a Jay-Z vocal sample. Today, it remains a workout soundtrack staple because of its dancefloor-ready beat and high-octane motivational energy. It’s a track that gets you hyped and ready to push harder.
25. “Jumpin Jumpin,” Destiny’s Child
“Ladies leave your man at home,” Destiny’s Child smartly advised back in 1999, “because it’s 11:30 and the club is jumpin, jumpin.” It was a hype anthem then, and it still holds up two decades later. The elliptical might not be a club, but we can certainly pretend it is while this track blasts through our headphones.
24. “Higher Love,” Kygo feat. Whitney Houston
“Higher Love” has a rich history, originally released by Steve Winwood in 1986. Whitney Houston recorded her own cover in 1990, but it received limited release. It became a Billboard hit again in 2019 and a Spotify workout favorite when Norwegian DJ Kygo gave it a tropical house makeover. Houston’s powerful vocals combined with the upbeat remix create a resonant and soaring track that makes it hard not to feel the spirit lift during your workout.
23. “I Like It,” Cardi B feat. J Balvin and Bad Bunny
Arguably the song of summer 2018, “I Like It” is festive and full of joy, thanks to its instantly recognizable boogaloo beat, the contributions of Latin stars J Balvin and Bad Bunny, and Cardi B’s incredibly catchy, singalong-ready chorus. It’s impossible not to feel energized and uplifted while working out to this track.
22. “La Mordidita,” Ricky Martin
This often-overlooked Latin gem is among Ricky Martin’s best work, thanks to its effervescent salsa beat. “La Mordidita” is pure energy and rhythm, perfect for workouts where you want to inject some Latin flair and keep your movements lively and fun.
21. “Bad Guy,” Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish was arguably 2019’s biggest breakout star, and her number-one hit “Bad Guy” from her debut album shows why. Produced with her brother Finneas, it’s dark and fast-paced, with a catchy, toe-tapping beat that’s just right for working out. The jazzy undertones and background snaps add a playful edge, while the lyrics and Eilish’s vocal style make it incredibly memorable.
20. “Numb/Encore,” Linkin Park feat. Jay-Z
This 2004 cross-genre collaboration between rock band Linkin Park and rapper Jay-Z has stood the test of time as a reliable workout hit. “What the hell are you waiting for?” serves as an excellent pump-up mantra, but it’s the unique blend of Linkin Park’s melodic punk and Jay-Z’s rapping that gives “Numb/Encore” its enduring appeal as a workout anthem.
19. “Purple Hat,” Sofi Tukker
Electronic dance duo Sofi Tukker have always embraced fun in their music, drawing inspiration from global musical cultures to create bold, party-ready tracks. “Purple Hat,” their 2019 hit, incorporates rock ‘n’ roll elements for a fresh sound. Its insistent beat makes it almost impossible not to want to move, making it ideal for workouts that need a high-energy soundtrack.
18. “Work B-tch,” Britney Spears
Britney Spears’s message in “Work B*tch” is clear: if “you want a hot body?” there’s only one route – work… hard work. This 2013 hit from her eighth album is seminal in its direct encouragement to keep grinding for your goals. It’s the perfect reminder during a tough workout session that effort equals results.
17. “Sicko Mode,” Travis Scott
Travis Scott’s “Sicko Mode” showcases the rapper at his most polished and became his first Hot 100 number-one hit in 2018. (The feature from Drake certainly didn’t hurt). What’s most unique about “Sicko Mode” is its innovative mix of samples and styles, creating an eclectic and engaging track. All of this is anchored by a gritty, driving beat that makes it a standout workout song.
16. “On My Way,” Tiësto feat. Bright Sparks
This upbeat EDM track from Dutch DJ and producer Tiësto, featuring Bright Sparks, carries a message perfectly aligned with the fitness journey: progress and forward momentum. “On My Way” is the ideal song to play when you’re hitting your stride and feeling the rhythm of your workout.
15. “Paint It Black,” Rolling Stones
“Paint It Black,” the iconic Rolling Stones track, begins with a mesmerizing, almost hypnotic intro before building into a fiery rock and roll anthem. Its steady, driving beat is perfect for pounding the pavement or maintaining a consistent tempo when you need to keep your pace up during a workout.
14. “Lean On,” Major Lazer, MØ and DJ Snake
Upon its release in 2015, the EDM-moombahton track “Lean On” became Spotify’s most-streamed song globally. Its catchy blend of a stretchy beat and Swedish singer MØ’s powerful vocals keeps it in heavy rotation as a workout motivator. It’s a song that gets you moving and keeps you energized throughout your exercise routine.
13. “Level Up,” Ciara
What’s more motivational than Ciara directly asking us to “level up?” The music video for “Level Up,” showcasing Ciara’s incredible dancing ability, is an added layer of motivation. The song’s fast pace is perfectly timed for workouts, and it even sparked a viral challenge encouraging people to “level up” in all areas of their lives, not just fitness.
12. “Believer,” Imagine Dragons
Heavy drumbeats and a driving, anthemic chorus give Imagine Dragons’ “Believer” immediate pump-up power. Led by the energetic frontman Dan Reynolds, Imagine Dragons are rock show mainstays for a reason. “Believer” was inescapable on radio and in advertisements in 2017, further boosted by a 2019 remix, solidifying its place as a workout anthem.
11. “Good As Hell,” Lizzo
Lizzo was TIME’s Entertainer of the Year in 2019, but “Good as Hell” has been uplifting spirits since 2016. This soulful track about self-acceptance and independence features the joyful affirmation, “Baby, how you feeling? Feeling good as hell!” It became a Billboard chart-climber in 2019 upon its re-release as a single. Lizzo’s message of body positivity makes every line a celebration of where you are right now, not where you’re striving to be, making it a uniquely empowering workout song.
10. “La Romana,” Bad Bunny feat. El Alfa
When Puerto Rico’s Bad Bunny surprise-released an album on Christmas 2018, it was a gift to fans. His music spans genres, from pop-punk to reggaeton ballads, but “La Romana” is the most high-energy track of the bunch, with a deeply satisfying rhythm. When it transitions halfway to feature rapper El Alfa, it elevates into an even more intense experience. This track is for workouts where you want to push your absolute limits.
9. “Wake Me Up,” Avicii
When Swedish DJ Avicii combined a country melody with Aloe Blacc’s soulful vocals and his own EDM expertise in 2013, he pioneered a new direction for electronic music and created a magically compelling hit. Seven years later, the buoyant energy of “Wake Me Up” remains as potent as ever, making it an enduringly effective workout song.
8. “Vossi Bop,” Stormzy
British grime star Stormzy is renowned for the charisma he brings to his music. “Vossi Bop” perfectly embodies what has made him a global sensation: inventive beats, brilliant rhyming, and an overall sense of fun. This 2019 track reached number one in the U.K. and introduced the world to the viral “Vossi bop” dance, adding a playful element to your workout playlist.
7. “Dance Monkey,” Tones and I
Australia’s Tones and I achieved breakthrough success in 2019 with her viral hit “Dance Monkey.” This deeply infectious pop track with an unforgettable chorus is a natural fit for workouts. Its rhythmic quality makes it ideal for dance-inspired routines or any exercise where you want to lock into a groove.
6. “POWER,” Kanye West
Kanye West’s 2010 album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is a long-time fan favorite, and “POWER” remains its most motivating anthem. Built on a handclap beat and cheerleading-style vocal shouts, “POWER” is a workout playlist staple. It’s designed to make you feel powerful and ready to conquer any fitness challenge.
5. “Don’t Start Now,” Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa made her mark in 2017 with her catchy and empowering pop anthems. Her 2019 return, “Don’t Start Now,” kicked off with a forward-thinking, bouncy disco vibe. This track manages to be both fiercely independent in its message and perfectly suited for club or gym environments, making it an excellent high-energy workout choice.
4. “Con Altura,” Rosalía and J Balvin feat. El Guincho
“Con Altura” takes its name from a radio personality’s catchphrase, suggesting taking things to a new height. This collaboration between Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and Spanish pop artist Rosalía, known for her flamenco influences, does just that. It’s a hit with attitude, perfect for leveling up the intensity of your workout and pushing your limits.
3. “Eye of the Tiger,” Survivor
“Eye of the Tiger” is simply one of those songs that instantly gets people moving. Thanks to its association with Rocky, it’s synonymous with overcoming challenges and achieving peak performance. Don’t resist its power; embrace your most determined attitude as soon as those opening guitar strums begin and keep pushing through your workout.
2. “Motivation,” Normani
Normani’s breakout single “Motivation” does exactly what the title suggests: it’s a fun, danceable song with an incredibly catchy and motivating beat. The music video, showcasing the former Fifth Harmony member and Dancing with the Stars contestant’s seriously impressive moves, adds another layer of inspiration. “Motivation” is indeed the perfect anthem for a dance-based workout or any routine needing an extra dose of energy.
1. “Till I Collapse,” Eminem
One of Eminem’s biggest hits, “Till I Collapse,” doubles as an intense pep talk. “When you feel weak, you feel like you want to just give up,” he begins, “but you gotta search within you, you gotta find that inner strength.” Then, the beat explodes. When your workout gets tough, Eminem is here to guide you to the finish line – no matter the exercise, no matter the challenge. This is the ultimate workout song to push you beyond your perceived limits.
