What encompasses the perfect workout playlist? It’s a pretty subjective art, but often there’s a steady and rhythmic beat, a build that gets you pumped, and a chorus that keeps you pushing harder. But not all workout playlists even need words.
If you are a gamer in need of some pump-up music, look no further than the very video games that get your blood pumping in the middle of an epic battle. The soundtracks of those riveting games can get your heart rate up and running at the gym. Here are the soundtracks that have the perfect workout music from your favorite video games.
10 The Halo Series
Is there a more triumphant video game song than the Halo Theme Song? In particular, the Mjolnir Halo 2 version is the kingpin version that trumps everything else.
The song starts with an all-male choir singing out this eerie, yet epic, chant that then is accompanied by the electrifying strum of an electric guitar bringing in the melody. Once the drum and bass hit, you feel the energy in your bones.
Nothing can get you pumped up and ready for a workout sesh than the epic Halo soundtrack.
9 Rocket League
Rocket League is full of lightning-fast cars, otherworldly aerodynamics, and skillful moves that take hours and hours to perfect. And no, we’re not talking about Tron. Rocket League’s futuristic environment and neon colors help enhance the electrical vibes that flow from the music.
The sound waves are bright with a quick tempo, and it’s hard not to feel absolutely pumped and ready to run a mile with these exhilarating tunes. Put on your 80s and 90s neon workout clothes and get to running!
8 Jet Set Radio Future
While Jet Set Radio Future was released only on XBOX in 2002, it won several awards and recognition for its visual animation and musical score. The soundtrack is still one of the greats in gaming and features Guitar Vader and Beastie Boy’s Ad-rock.
If you were a fan in the early 2000s, you'll still be a fan and enjoy these nostalgic songs for a whole new purpose.
This soundtrack will have you pulling out your dusty roller blades and pumping you up for some speed on the track and maybe even some grinding down rails. This is Jet Set Radio! It’s in the name.
7 MX Games
Probably the only game to do the metal ringing, head banging, and devil-horn-producing soundtrack better than Tony Hawk were any of the MX games such as Unleashed, Untamed, or MX vs ATV. Songs such as Headstrong, Face Down, or Out of Control are easy enough to raise a little heart rate and get a good burn-in.
Popular bands such as Reliant K, Nickelback, and Papa Roach frequent all of the soundtracks produced in this game series, and for good reason. Who doesn’t want to head bang along to some rock while revving up and down some dirt hills with a mean piece of machinery?
6 Mass Effect 3
Mass Effect 3 mastered the whole epic adventure storyline. The stakes were as high as any game ever before, the build-up was beautifully crafted, and feelings of awe were not lost on anyone.
It makes sense that music would match this level of mastery.
Whether it was the fearful drowning out of Reapers invading planet after planet, the combat music as you tear through countless Reaper-controlled hordes, or the triumphant Das Malefitz track that truly gives the feeling of saving the galaxy. It’s hard not to get pumped up while imagining yourself defeating the race-wiping Reapers.
5 Tony Hawk Pro Skater
The classic Tony Hawk series is truly a masterpiece within gaming industry history. The classic game lets you have a turn gaming while sitting on the couch, and trying to out-score your buddy's last run.
No gaming masterpiece is ever thought of without its music.
A king of pop culture, Tony Hawk threw together this banger of a playlist. From Gold Finger to Papa Roach to Rage Against the Machine, Tony Hawk Pro Skater probably set the musical taste for many a rocker.
No better way to pump some iron than with some metal pumping through your ears.
4 Dead or Alive 3
It's time to get your boxing gloves on and get ready to hit the bags. Dead or Alive 3 is your perfect backdrop music to get you going and keep you in the ring.
This martial arts World Combat Championship fighting game was originally released in 2001 and the soundtrack has Jennifer Garner's Alias tv-show vibes.
It's quick drum beats and synthetic melodies transport you into the ring. But stay out of the danger zone! Whether this music pumps you up or makes you angry, use that energy to work out harder, faster, and stronger!
3 Crypt of the NecroDancer
If dancing is your ideal form of exercise, then Crypt of the NecroDancer is your goldmine when it comes to video game soundtrack music. If you haven't played Crypt of the NecroDancer, here's a hint: move in beat with the music, otherwise your health and happiness will take a beating.
This music will have your gaming heart exploding as you shake, groove, and glide across the dance floor. And the songs will make you feel like you are in the 80s playing Tron or running away from the Upside Down monsters from Stranger Things.
2 Bastion
This fantasy role-playing game is beautiful in both its incredible graphics and also its electrifying soundtrack. Bynn the Breaker is a great place to start if you're running the treadmill. Its steady beat is the perfect warm-up pace and will give you a real boost in confidence to get the best out of your workout.
Spike in a Rail is another great song on the soundtrack that will transport you to the Wild West and help you pump some iron. Allow your heart to beat in rhythm with these country strokes and you'll be lifting more weight in no time.
1 Ring Fit Adventure
Of course we were going to add an actual video game workout soundtrack that was quite literally composed to get the heart pumping and get you on your feet! Ring Fit Adventure is the top pick for actual workout games and the soundtrack doesn't disappoint.
You'll definitely enjoy the ringing sounds that come along with classic video game music and these rapid melodies will keep you moving quickly as you continue to push forward to your calorie goal! Get it!