The Influence and Effect of Music on Exercise

The increasing prevalence of obesity, and thus other serious health issues, in worldwide population is most highly associated with lack of physical activity 4. Lack of adherence to exercise and physical activity, and related programs, is correlated with absence of motivation and enjoyment 4. Research has proven the presence of music, during physical activity, to be a strong motivator and linked to increased enjoyment, thus increasing exercise adherence 1,2,3,7. The purpose of this essay is to compile research in order to analyze and explain how the presence of music during physical activity increases mood and affective state of mind to bring about increased adherence and motivation as well as describe how individuals feel as though they are doing less work/exercising less when listening to music while being physically active 1,2,3,4,7,9. In addition, this essay will, thus, examine the effect that different music genres, speeds, paces, and preferences have on exercise performance, enjoyment and adherence 3,5,7,8