60s Workout Music

They say that if you remember the '60s, you weren't there. Fortunately you didn't have to be there to appreciate the music. Whimsical, romantic and sometimes silly lyrics blended with steady, upbeat rhythms characterizes the music of this era. Add easy-to-sing melodies -- especially for those who tend to sing off-key -- and you have an ideal workout playlist.

  1. Rhythm and Tempo

    • Your body has an auditory response to rhythm, which hears it, and a physical response, which organizes your movements into rhythmic patterns. To prove a point, play Martha Reeves and the Vandellas' "Dancing in the Street" and try not to tap your feet to the rhythm. The simplicity of sound that characterizes this musical era makes it easy to hear the evenly paced rhythm and tempo. Its distinct, 32-count phrasing works well with aerobic or step choreography, as well as with nonchoreographed workouts such as running, resistance and elliptical training.

    Motown

    • If you're old enough, Motown evokes happy memories of the past. If you're too young, you'll vicariously experience the past you wish you had. Smile-inducing songs such as "My Girl," "Baby Love," "I Heard It Though the Grapevine" and "Going to a Go-Go" provide a perfect rhythm and tempo for step aerobic and resistance training sessions. Listen to "Get Ready" by the Temptations and fly through your faster aerobic sessions.

    Best for Group Exercise

    • The musicians of the 1960s produced some timeless classics that appeal to people of any age. Many of these songs encourage sing-alongs, which promote a congenial and energetic ambiance in group exercise classes. Rhythm and blues, Motown's older cousin, brings lively music to the aerobic class, as evidenced by Wilson Pickett's "Land of 1,000 Dances." "Tequila," by the Champs, creates a party atmosphere. Rock and roll fans will groove to Steppenwolf's "Born to Be Wild."

    The Beatles

    • The music of the Beatles adds life to any 1960s workout music playlist, especially the songs from their prepsychedelic stage. Songs such as "Birthday," "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da," "Get Back," "A Hard Day's Night," "Day Tripper" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand" have inspiring lyrics, upbeat tempos and singable melodies. The musical phrasing stays even throughout the entire song, making them choreography-friendly for step and aerobics instructors.