Good Walking Songs for Fast Weight Loss

Listening to music while you walk doesn't just make your walk more pleasant---if you listen to the right music, it can help motivate you to move faster, maintain your pace and ultimately lose more weight than walking without music, according to studies by British researcher Costas Karageorghis. Use these strategies to choose good walking songs for fast weight loss.

  1. Selection

    • Karageorghis' research suggests that walkers should consider several different variables when choosing a playlist for their workout.

      First, look for songs that have a strong rhythm that make you feel energized when you listen. Some good choices might be "Funky Cold Medina" by Tone Loc or "Celebration" by Kool & The Gang. Your body will instinctively keep pace with the song's beat.

      Choose songs with positive, upbeat lyrics that promote movement, such as "Body Groove" by the Architects Ft. Nana, or songs that have associations with successful activity, such as the "Rocky" soundtracks or "Flashdance." You'll be subconsciously influenced by the lyrics.

      Choose songs with 120 to 140 beats per minute (BPM)---approximately the same as your heartbeat during a moderate-intensity exercise like walking. Many songs fit this description, including Bon Jovi's "Living on a Prayer," Robbie Williams' "Let Me Entertain You" and Kelly Clarkson's "I Do Not Hook Up."

      Pick songs you like for your playlist. If you don't like a song, it's not going to motivate you to keep moving. Choose a variety of tunes, too, rather than concentrating on one artist or genre, since variety promotes motivation.

    Progression

    • Plan your walking soundtrack to correspond to your workout. Start with an energizing, upbeat song that gets you in the mood to move as you get ready to start your warm-up---Rihanna's "Umbrella" is a good choice. Then move to a high-energy song for your warm-up activity, such as "Here I Come" by the Roots. Set a steady pace for your walk with music that gradually increases in intensity, starting with songs like Groove Armada's "At the River" and progressing to songs like Corona's "The Rhythm of the Night." Finish with a cool-down tune that helps your body wind down from its workout, such as Salt-n-Pepa's "Whatta Man."