278.Should You Listen To Music When You Run? What does the research say!?
We’re back talking about music! This is part 2 of the music science series, scroll back to 275 for part 1.
In this episode, Lydia dives into a recent systematic review exploring how listening to music during exercise affects perceived exertion, performance, and physiological responses.
We often use music to motivate us, distract us from discomfort, or get us through a tough session — but what does the research actually tell us? And does music change what’s happening physiologically, or does it simply change how exercise feels?
We cover:
How music affects perceived exertion during running
What the systematic review found about exercise performance
The difference between subjective and physiological responses to music
Why music can make exercise feel easier without changing heart rate or lactate
How music may influence pacing, motivation, and effort
Whether music has any implications for injury risk
How runners can use music strategically during training and racing
Interestingly, the research suggests that music can significantly reduce perceived exertion and may provide a small improvement in performance, without necessarily changing physiological measures such as heart rate or lactate.
So, if music makes your run feel easier, is that actually useful? And could you use it as a tool to help with pacing and motivation?
If you’re a runner who loves a good playlist, this episode breaks down what’s happening beneath the surface — and how you can use music more intentionally in your training.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction to the episode and recent research
02:09 Overview of the systematic review and its significance
04:03 Research methodology and participant demographics
07:44 Main findings: perceived exertion and performance effects
11:04 Physiological vs subjective effects of music during exercise
14:24 Practical implications for runners and injury risk
17:44 Using music as a tool for pacing and motivation
19:58 Summary of key takeaways and practical advice
22:44 Final thoughts on mindful use of music in running
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