21 Songs That Will Get You Psyched to Work Out

If I'm going to jump on a stationary bike or go for a jog around my neighborhood, not only will I be sure to warm up, but I will also double- and triple-check that there is a good playlist queued up on my iPhone. Curating a strong workout playlist is as important to me as doing what I can to prevent pulling a muscle. (Comfortable, well-fitting headphones are also important. I will cut a workout short if my headphones won’t stay put, no question. If my ears are annoyed, it's game over.)

There are a select number of songs that I can always count on to carry me through any and every "I AM TOO TIRED. MY LEGS HURT. THIS ISN'T FUN. THIS WASN'T EVER FUN. I WANT TO STOP NOW" storm. Those songs are Good Workout Songs.

What makes a Good Workout Song? A hot beat is always a solid start. Scratch that. A hot beat is necessary. Another crucial element: The “must make listener feel as though she could lift a car over her head”-osity levels must be through the roof. I will not settle for anything less.

Good Workout Songs will pump you up while you're getting your sweat on, and they'll get you pumped up about working out. You'll be excited to work out before you work out because you'll be so stoked to listen the Good Workout Songs. They're that powerful. Do I have examples of Good Workout Songs? Oh, do I ever.

"Space Jam" by The Quad City DJs

If the Tune Squad could beat the Monstars, you've got those reps on lock. Bugs Bunny believes in you.

“We Found Love” by Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris

Even when I'm half-asleep, the Calvin Harris-produced track causes my heart rate to increase. This song was made for cardio.

"Lose Control" by Missy Elliott feat. Ciara & Fatman Scoop

Warning: While listening to "Lose Control," you may be inspired to choreograph a routine. That could be tricky if you're listening to it while you're on a treadmill. You might even... lose control.

“Break Free” by Ariana Grande feat. Zedd

Go ahead and belt "I'M STRONGER THAN I'VE BEEN BEFORE" as you grab the slightly heavier free weights. Everyone in the gym will understand.

"All For You" by Janet Jackson

The delightfulness of this song will all but cause you to forget you're working out. It's a treasure.

"Lose My Breath" by Destiny's Child

The panting. THE PANTING.

"Fergalicious" by Fergie

You'll be up in the gym just workin' on your fitness, and Fergie will be there in spirit. Cool, huh?

"Bring Em Out" by T.I.

When I listen to this, I like to close my eyes and imagine I'm running out on the court with the Oklahoma City Thunder. I get so amped every time.

"Till The World Ends" by Britney Spears

Keep on dancing/jogging/lifting/doing pushups/swimming laps until the world ends. Don't let Brit Brit down.

"Pound the Alarm" by Nicki Minaj

Why must we pound the alarm? Uh, because this song will make you feel like FIIIIIRE in the gym.

"Party Starter" by Will Smith

Working out is not a party. But we can pretend otherwise.

"Pop" by 'N Sync

Listen to this while you do a circuit. You're welcome.

"Wild For The Night" By A$AP Rocky feat. Skrillex and Birdy Nam Nam

This song's energy is perfect for when you need a mid-gym sesh pick-me-up. Your batteries will not only be recharged, but they will be wild. They will be wild for the night.

"Get Me Bodied" by Beyoncé

It’s like you’re in a dance class. A Bey-led dance class. The best kind of dance class.

" Bad Girls" by M.I.A.

Too nervous to confront the guy who swooped in on the stairclimber you'd been waiting to use? Listen to "Bad Girls." That stairclimber will be as good as yours.

"Sissy That Walk" by RuPaul

Don't question Mama Ru. Sissy that goddamned walk.

"Bulletproof" by La Roux

Have I ever gone running and listened to this song on repeat for 30 minutes straight (and by "running" I mean "jogging and taking lots of breaks")? Yes. Yes I have.

"Applause" by Lady Gaga

"Put your hands up, make 'em touch," eh? Is this song actually about clapping, or is it about doing jumping jacks?

"All Of The Lights" by Kanye West feat. Rihanna

Do you like to pretend you're a movie character prepping for a big match while you work out? This song is the best soundtrack for the training montage.

"Run The World (Girls)" by Beyoncé

Yes, another Bey song. But that Major Lazer sample + Queen Bey reminding everyone what’s what = there wasn't a chance I'd leave it off of the list.

"Techno Syndrome" by The Immortals

Why? Two words: MORTAAAAAL KOMBAAAAAAT.

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