As the weather gets warmer and spending time outside becomes more enjoyable, you might find yourself itching to exercise outdoors. It always feels nice to do a workout in the fresh air after spending the cold months in Colgate University’s Trudy Fitness Center. This week’s 13 Beats features the best upbeat songs to power you through your next run or walk.
1. “Good Grief – Don Diablo Remix” – Bastille, Don Diablo (2016)
There’s nothing like listening to a good remix while getting your blood pumping. “I miss you more,” repeats Dan Smith throughout the catchy chorus that leads to a satisfying beat drop.
2. “Take a Walk” – Passion Pit (2012)
“Take a Walk” always puts a smile on my face, even when I’m out of breath from a run. The electric rock sound of the track is upbeat and inspiring.
3. “Lush Life” – Zara Larsson (2017)
“Doin’ it all night, all summer / Doin’ it the way I wanna,” sings Zara Larsson in this poppy track. The lyrics inspire listeners to live their lives how they want to and not take any moment for granted.
4. “Tennis Court – Flume Remix” – Lorde, Flume (2014)
This track is perfect if you’re looking for a longer song to play during your workout. Flume gives the original song an electric makeover to make it more upbeat and danceable.
5. “Maneater” – Nelly Furtado (2006)
“When she talks, she talks like she can handle it,” sings Nelly Furtado in this classic pop track. This song always gives me a needed vote of confidence when I feel like I can’t get through a run.
6. “CIRCUS MAXIMUS” – Travis Scott, The Weeknd, Swae Lee (2023)
So many tracks off of Travis Scott’s most recent album, Utopia, are great to run to, but this one is my favorite. The raw, addictive drum beat keeps me motivated throughout the hardest parts of my runs.
7. “My Type” – Saint Motel (2014)
“You-you-you’re just my type,” repeats AJ Jackson throughout the chorus about how perfect his lover is for him. The spunky production on this track always mixes things up and makes my runs more fun.
8. “Headlines” – Drake (2011)
Drake raps about finding success and making an impact in the music industry all while trying to balance humility and pride. The constant beat on this track always helps get my head in the game.
9. “Best Day Of My Life” – American Authors (2014)
Another track to help manifest good vibes, “Best Day Of My Life” is the perfect song to run to when you’re having a bad day. “Everything is looking up, everybody up now,” croons Zac Barnett about the optimism he has for a good day.
10. “brutal” – Olivia Rodrigo (2021)
“They say these are the golden years / But I wish I could disappear,” sings Olivia Rodrigo, pouring her anger about her insecurities into this track. I can rely on the guitar in the chorus to give me an extra boost of energy.
11. “Body” – Loud Luxury, Brando (2017)
This song always reminds me of summer and happy memories. Loud Luxury creates a fun and upbeat chorus to propel you forward on your run.
12. “Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé, Jay-Z
“Got me lookin so crazy right now,” croons Beyoncé about how powerful the feelings her lover evokes in her are. The Y2K drums and production on this track always pour a lot of energy into my run.
13. “We Can’t Stop” – Miley Cyrus (2013)
If you’re looking for a more relaxed track for your cool down, this one is my pick. When Miley Cyrus repeats, “We can’t stop and we won’t stop,” I always take it as a reminder to finish out my workout strong.