From Take That to Taylor Swift: the psychology behind our workout playlists explained

A recently published study from Leeds Beckett University reveals that while many people use music and podcasts to distract themselves from the discomfort of exercise or to pick up the pace, they are also seeking something deeper: a powerful, immersive feeling known as "resonance."

Dr Chris Till, a reader in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Leeds Beckett University, conducted in-depth interviews with people who regularly use streaming services during exercise. While participants often described music as a tool to avoid boredom or push through fatigue, the findings suggest that streaming platforms play a more significant emotional and psychological role with music helping create rhythm in daily life.

The study uncovered two main ways that streaming content helps people structure their day:

Creating transitions - For many, especially those working from home, music helped mark the shift from work mode to workout mode. Without a physical commute or change of environment, playlists provided a quick and effective mental reset.

Boosting energy - Whether facing an afternoon slump or struggling to switch gears, participants said the right track or podcast episode helped lift their energy and prepare their mind for physical activity.

Dr Chris Till said: "While tempo-matching playlists helped some participants run faster or align music with their workout pace, the majority weren't focused on smashing personal bests. Instead, they wanted to feel a particular emotion during exercise - whether intense, soothing, angry, or fun.

"Interestingly, many chose music they wouldn't normally listen to in daily life. These out-of-character choices helped create a distinctive emotional experience - one that blended movement and sound in a way that produced resonance.

"Drawing on the work of sociologist Hartmut Rosa, the study suggests that music-enhanced workouts may offer something increasingly rare: moments of connection, vitality and positive vibration.

In an age of remote work, digital overload and limited social contact, streaming services may help individuals reconnect - with their bodies, their emotions, and the world around them."

The findings indicate that combining streamed content with exercise may help people combat feelings of isolation, monotony or stress associated with modern routines.

The full study is available as an open-access article in Cultural Sociology.