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. 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 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!”
Hit play on each of the songs ahead or favorite the playlist on Spotify to stream a winning workout music playlist wherever you go. There’s over two hours of workout music here, enough to get you through a long run, hot girl walk, a lower body workout, or total-body gym workout. We admit, sometimes we have a hard time pausing this one, even after we’ve showered off — it’s just that good.
— Additional reporting by Chandler Plante and Jade Esmeralda
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.
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.
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.
Karol G and Shakira 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” 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.
Selena Gomez 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.
Shakira’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.
“Stranger Things” fans unite. Kate Bush’s 1985 hit gets a dreamy remix you can add to any workout.
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?
This is one of those songs you can scream the lyrics to (but only if the gym is empty). Otherwise, channel Rihanna’s confidence and use this song to feel empowered during any workout.
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.
Miley Cyrus 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.
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.
Get yourself pumped up for the gym with an energetic party anthem from Troye Sivan. You’ll feel the rush in no time.
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.
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.
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.
Bad Bunny belongs on any workout playlist, and this song — all about partying and celebrating life — is one of our top picks.
“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.
Jack Harlow didn’t miss with this pop-rap single. The beat alone will have you pumped up and ready for the gym.
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.
Another bop from the new era of Doja Cat, this melodic track is a little more laidback, but undeniably catchy.
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.
We have to throw it back for this N.E.R.D and Rihanna collab. The beat just never gets old (and Rihanna’s part is pure fire).
Something about Flo Milli’s music makes us feel extra confident, even during the hardest workouts.
Channel your inner teen angst with this Olivia Rodrigo song and see if you can challenge yourself during your next workout.
We can’t stop listening to Tyla’s “Water,” which makes it the perfect choice for a long run or cardio session.
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.
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.
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.
Ariana Grande is #unbothered in “yes, and?” Bring the same kind of energy to the gym (and anywhere really) with this lighthearted pop song.
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.
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).
Shakira 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.
You might’ve already heard this song on TikTok (shoutout Charli D’Amelio), but the full version is even better for the gym.
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.
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.”
This song will give you the motivation to get up, lift heavy, then party right afterwards. What more could you ask for?
We love seeing Sexyy Red and SZA come together in this upbeat Drake track. Definitely a good one to add to your workout playlist.
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.
We need to science to unpack why Rihanna’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).
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.
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.
Stay hype throughout your workout with one of top tracks of the year. It’s hard to find anyone who hasn’t heard the infectious “Not Like Us” track by Kendrick Lamar. “Love that this beat originated with Ray Charles on piano, and Monk Higgins on the saxophone,” A fan writes on YouTube, “This song is absolutely ridiculous!”
From one listen, starting with the haunting vocals and catchy whistling, this track is bound to have your next workout elevated to the next level. Save and use the Jauz remix of “Trampoline” by SHAED for your next training recap reel.
Leading the way for one of the most popular workout anthems, “Up” from Cardi B has amassed over 600 million plays on Spotify and nearly 300 million on YouTube. Take your next training session to another level by adding this hype song into the mix.
Queen Bey knows how to send a message. Beyoncé’s “Run the World (Girls)”is an unapologetic anthem that’s all about empowerment, making it a perfect pick to add to your workout training playlist.
If you’re on TikTok, you’ve definitely heard this one. Featuring Megan Thee Stallion, “WAP” by Cardi B remains a top hit. “Idc what anybody says, this is a banger,” one fan wrote on YouTube. Another fan chimed in, “The power this makes me feel.” That’s exactly the energy we want to channel during our gym sessions.
If this song wasn’t on your gym playlist already, you need to add it ASAP. “This song makes you feel so badass and confident omg,” YouTube user christine-zp7dh writes. “Only problem with this song is that it’s way [too] short,” YouTube user emoxanimexgrl adds.
With an energizing beat, the chart-topping house song “All Alone” by DJ Neco is perfect to power up your next workout. The steady, rhythmic pulse is so uplifting, making it easy stay motivated as you push through one more set.
Featuring Doja Cat, “Best Friend” by Saweetie is seriously vibey collab that brings tons of energy. “This will ALWAYS BE A BOP,” writes one fan on YouTube. Hype up your next workout with this track.
With a seriously catchy hook, “Maneater” by Nelly Furtado is a fun, nostalgic classic. The energetic, driving beat — paired with a chorus that’ll have you singing all the words — makes it an easy pick to keep up the intensity during any workout.
The epitome of a classic pop song, “Toxic” by Britney Spears is an ultimate go-to for workout songs. You’ll be so focused on singing along, you’ll forget all about feeling fatigued.
Best hype songs? “Body” by Megan Thee Stallion checks all the boxes. It’s an empowering anthem that boosts energy and confidence, making it a perfect motivational track for your workout music playlist.
With an infectious beat, this energizing track definitely fits the bill for best hype songs. The viral dance is a workout on its own.
Melanie Whyte was a contributing staff writer for PS. Based in NYC, she writes about LGBTQ+ identity, sex and relationships, pop culture hot takes, mental health, and home improvement. Her work has been featured by Refinery29, Real Simple, Apartment Therapy, Southern Living, Coveteur, NPR, and more.
Chandler Plante (she/her) is an assistant health and fitness editor for PS. She has over four years of professional journalism experience, previously working as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributing to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group
Jade Esmeralda (she/her), MS, CSCS, is a health and fitness staff writer and a strength and conditioning specialist. A lifelong martial artist and dancer, Jade has a strong passion for strength and conditioning, sports science, and human performance. She graduated with a Master of Science degree in exercise science and strength and conditioning from George Washington University.
