We all know Toronto only has two seasons: winter, and construction. So, now that the weather is starting to warm up, try listening to these tunes to block out the city noise when you feel like going for a run.
- “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, 1982
I strongly recommend starting your cardio workout with a light jog transitioning to a sprint with this classic track featured in Rocky III. This song is my go-to warm-up beat and is guaranteed to help you run the distance.
- “Run Run Run” by Celeste Buckingham, 2012
In this catchy tune, the artist sings, “You better run, run, run / Nowhere to run / But to me.” If lyrics can contain subliminal messages, then they are sure to get you motivated for the exhilarating run ahead!
- “Nonstop” by Drake, 2018
With over 800 million streams on Spotify, Drake’s song “Nonstop” from his 2018 album Scorpion is clearly a popular fan favourite. The Toronto native sings about the fast-paced music industry and his impressive work ethic that evidently paid for his timeless timepiece: a Rolex watch. Cue the beat: “This a Rollie, not a stopwatch, shit don’t ever stop.” If this isn’t a Toronto man’s jam, I don’t know what is.
- “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees, 1977
When you feel a runner’s cramp coming on — usually on the right side, just under the ribs — keep your beats per minute (BPM) steady to this tune featured in the 1977 drama/romance movie Saturday Night Fever, featuring a bearded John Travolta. Fun fact: the beat in this song has also been used repeatedly to teach CPR.
- “Summertime Sadness” by Lana Del Rey, Cedric Gervais remix, 2012
Summertime is rad, not sad! Especially when you’re listening to the sweet, seductive voice of Lana Del Rey. Her angelic vocals, which are remixed in this up-beat version, are pure serenity. So, enjoy the summer sun heat and feel the beat while the soles of your feet skip through the streets.
- “All Day and Night” by Jax Jones, Martin Solveig, and Madison Beer, 2019
The best thing about this song is the continuous melody which makes it a perfect track to run to without interruptions. Hopefully, this trio of artists will collaborate again to make another great running anthem.
- “Runnin” by Mike WiLL made-it, feat. A$AP Rocky, A$AP Ferg, and Nicki Minaj, 2018
“Runnin, runnin, runnin, this shit, both legs broke / Runnin, round town, yeah they comin for my head though / Funny thing about it they don’t always see my head though.” The lyrics speak for themselves, but please don’t break your legs for the sake of your run.
- “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” by Daft Punk, 2001
I highly recommend blasting this tune to get you pumped for summer. Daft Punk’s songs have an incredibly unique way of engaging the listener, using fool-proof beats that are guaranteed to keep you moving, and maybe even dancing.
- “Alors On Danse” by Stromae, DubDogz remix, 2010
Speaking of dancing, this French song “Alors on Dance” — meaning so we dance — is the perfect track. Whether you’re training for a marathon, hitting the treadmill at your local gym, or warming up for a dance-off, this is your tune!
- “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, 2013
End your workout on a high — a runner’s high. While cardiovascular exercise increases the release of endorphins, adrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine in your body, this upbeat and feel-good song will similarly leave you feeling euphoric and energized.
