It's not just in your head(phones): science says listening to music really does make your workout better. The right music boosts performance during resistance-, endurance-, and sprint-based exercise, according to a review in the Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology [1]. Workout music also has the power to elevate your mood and prepare you for an intense sweat session. Choosing the best workout songs not only gets your heart pounding, but it also helps to distract from fatigue when you're pushing through an especially challenging set. Having a go-to playlist full of pump-up songs will ensure that you get the most out of your fitness routine [2] and — even more importantly — enjoy it.
To make sure your gym playlist is serving you well, we gathered the best workout songs from 2024 with a couple classics sprinkled in. From viral TikTok bops, to rediscovered classics (hello, Kate Bush!), these hype songs will motivate you to sweat a little more and push a little harder. Knock out some high-energy cardio or tough strength training while getting acquainted with chart-topping hits, including Megan Thee Stallion's "Hiss," Beyoncé's "YA YA," and Chappell Roan's "HOT TO GO!"
Expect bop after bop from musical icons like Rihanna [3] and Shakira [4], along with newer names like Kenya Grace. There's even a song from the "Barbie" movie soundtrack [5] (yes, the one by Dua Lipa) for the ultimate hot girl walk [6]. There's over two hours of workout music here — enough to get you through a long run or total-body gym workout [7]. Hit play on each of the songs ahead, or favorite the playlist on Spotify, to stream a winning workout music playlist wherever you go. Now throw on your favorite sneakers [8], grab your earbuds, and cue up this list of the best workout songs.
— Additional reporting by Chandler Plante
"YA YA" by Beyoncé
Everyone is talking about Beyoncé's country album, "Cowboy Carter," and we understand why. This catchy track is one of our favorites for an upbeat workout vibe.
"the boy is mine" by Ariana Grande
We don't need to delve too deep into what this song is about — just know it's the perfect workout bop off Ari's newest album.
"Boy's a Liar Pt. 2" by PinkPantheress, Ice Spice
Resident girl's girls PinkPantheress and Ice Spice come together in what can only be described as a certified bop. If you need a catchy beat to ease into your workout, look no further.
"TQG" by Karol G, Shakira
Karol G and Shakira [10] joined forces following their respective breakups from Piqué and Anuel AA. The title "TQG" comes from the saying "te quedó grande" which literally translates to "too big for you" but can also be interpreted as "I was too good for you." AKA the perfect mantra for your next workout.
"Ferrari" by James Hype, Miggy Dela Rosa
"Ferrari" is the ultimate mood booster for the days you just can't find the workout motivation. Get into the groove and use the song to find your own rhythm.
"Calm Down" by Rema, Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez [11] and Rema may be telling you to calm down, but this song will still get your energy up. Their track was even recognized as the best Afrobeats song at the 2023 VMAs and Billboard Music Awards.
"Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53" by Bizarrap, Shakira
Shakira [12]'s personal storytelling melds beautifully with DJ Bizarrap's beats, dropping more details about her highly publicized breakup from soccer star Piqué. The ethos of the song is hype enough, but it's also undeniably catchy.
"Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)" by MELON & Ronko
"Stranger Things [13]" fans unite. Kate Bush's 1985 hit gets a dreamy remix you can add to any workout.
"Star Walkin' (League of Legends Worlds Anthem)" by Lil Nas X
Technically the song for the 2022 League of Legends World Championship, this tune will also make you will legendary. What better type of song to play during your workout?
"Needed Me" by Rihanna
This is one of those songs you can scream the lyrics to (but only if the gym is empty). Otherwise, channel Rihanna [14]'s confidence and use this song to feel empowered during any workout.
"Players" by Coi Leray, David Guetta
Girls are players too, as Coi Leray is here to remind you. This version is sped up — courtesy of David Guetta — for optimal workout hype.
"River" by Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus [15] formerly called her "River" lyrics "f*cking nasty," but they still make for a certified workout bop. It's the perfect song to run or dance to, and highly underrated in our humble opinion.
"Dance the Night" by Dua Lipa
Make your workout a little more Barbiecore with a hit from the "Barbie" album. Dua Lipa's "Dance the Night" has all the upbeat disco vibes.
"Rush" by Troye Sivan
Get yourself pumped up for the gym with an energetic party anthem from Troye Sivan. You'll feel the rush in no time.
"Meltdown" by Niall Horan
We can't get enough of Niall Horan's voice, and "Meltdown" is a sunny example of his best work. You just can't help but move to it.
"Greedy" by Tate McRae
You might've originally heard this catchy track on social media, but it belongs on your gym playlist now. Tate McRae gives you all the pop star vibes, and even some impressive choreography to copy.
"Paint the Town Red" by Doja Cat
Doja Cat started her new era off strong with "Paint the Town Red." It's the song to listen to if you need a little extra motivation or inspiration for tuning out the haters.
"Los Pits" by Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny belongs on any workout playlist, and this song — all about partying and celebrating life — is one of our top picks.
"Strangers" by Kenya Grace
"Strangers" is the perfect fast-paced song for an aesthetic nighttime run or long cardio sesh. It's one of those tracks you'll want to hear again as soon as it's finished.
"Lovin On Me" by Jack Harlow
Jack Harlow didn't miss with this pop-rap single. The beat alone will have you pumped up and ready for the gym.
"HISS" by Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion is getting some things off her chest, and her words might help you do the same at the gym. This is the ideal song for when you're having a rough day and need that extra boost.
"Agora Hills" by Doja Cat
Another bop from the new era of Doja Cat, this melodic track is a little more laidback, but undeniably catchy.
"SUMMER RENAISSANCE" by Beyoncé
Beyoncé is the queen of confidence, and her music will have you feeling the same way. Add this high-tempo song to your playlist and notice how much easier your workout seems.
"Lemon" by N.E.R.D & Rihanna
We have to throw it back for this N.E.R.D and Rihanna [16] collab. The beat just never gets old (and Rihanna's part is pure fire).
"Never Lose Me" by Flo Milli
Something about Flo Milli's music makes us feel extra confident, even during the hardest workouts.
"All-American Bitch" by Olivia Rodrigo
Channel your inner teen angst with this Olivia Rodrigo [17] song and see if you can challenge yourself during your next workout.
"Water" by Tyla
We can't stop listening to Tyla's "Water," which makes it the perfect choice for a long run or cardio session.
"Low" by SZA
We're still not over SZA's "SOS" album, so we're bringing back this fiery track to get your pumped up for your next workout.
"CUFF IT" by Beyoncé
A crowd favorite, "Cuff It" is one of the most popular songs off the "Renaissance" album for good reason. Add it to your gym playlist and see why everyone loves it so much.
Troye Sivan - One of Your Girls (Official Video)
The music video heard around the world. Besides the fact that this uplifting pop track gave us Troye Sivan and Ross Lynch in the same video, it's also so darn catchy.
"yes, and?" by Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande [18] is #unbothered in "yes, and?" Bring the same kind of energy to the gym (and anywhere really) with this lighthearted pop song.
"Espresso" by Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter debuted "Espresso" at Coachella, and it hasn't left our minds since. This one is for the pop girlies who never really believed Sharpay was the villain.
"HOT TO GO!" by Chappell Roan
If you're not listening to Chappell Roan, this is your sign to hop on the bandwagon. It's hard to choose a favorite, but "HOT TO GO!" has been on repeat lately (there's even a dance that goes with it).
"Puntería" by Shakira, Cardi B
Shakira [19] and Cardi B finally came together for this fun and flirty collaboration. "Puntería" (meaning to aim) is all about falling for someone you shouldn't . . . but it also happens to be incredibly catchy.
"Jump" by Tyla, Gunna, Skillibeng
You might've already heard this song on TikTok (shoutout Charli D'Amelio [20]), but the full version is even better for the gym.
"The von dutch remix with addison rae and a. g. cook" by Charli XCX
We can't stop thinking about Addison Rae turning a singular scream into a viral hyper-pop moment. A certified bop for anyone just living that life.
"On My Mama" by Victoria Monét
This song is so good, it's virtually impossible not to dance to it. Turn your next workout into a party with Victoria Monét's "On My Mama."
"Prada" by Cassö x Raye x D Block Europe
This song will give you the motivation to get up, lift heavy, then party right afterwards. What more could you ask for?
"Rich Baby Daddy" by Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA
We love seeing Sexyy Red and SZA come together in this upbeat Drake track. Definitely a good one to add to your workout playlist.
"After Hours" by Kehlani
If anyone is going to make the song of the summer, you know it'll be Kehlani. "After Hours" — her first solo single since 2022 – is already a strong contender.
"Birthday Cake" by Rihanna
We need to science to unpack why Rihanna [21]'s music makes us want to lift so much heavier. This song in particular will get your heart rate racing (and it's not even our birthday).
"10:35" by Tiësto feat. Tate McRae
Don't blame us if you can't stop listening to this uplifting song. With vocals by Canadian singer-songwriter Tate McRae and beats by Dutch DJ Tiësto, "10:35" brings all the good vibes you need for a tough workout.
"Sweatpants" by Childish Gambino feat. Problem
Throw it back to the "Because the Internet" days with one of Childish Gambino's most hype tracks. Inexplicably, we still remember most of the lyrics.
Chandler Plante [22] is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Health & Fitness. Previously, she worked as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributed to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group. In her free time, she overshares on the internet, creating content about chronic illness, beauty, and disability.
