Five Best “Gym Jam” Albums
Words and Picks by Jennifer Boylen
I have had my fair share of ‘let’s go ham at the gym’ phases. I consider quite a few of my friends gym rats and once upon a time I was one of them. While I still enjoy a daily run, the most motivating thing to me when working out is picking the right music. I usually lean towards something heavy or upbeat, but anything that got me pumped up would do. I dread the days when I forget my headphones, knowing my workout will be absolute crap because there is nothing to keep me occupied on an elliptical expect for subtitles on a television hanging from the ceiling. The best part about a good workout is listening to a new record, an old favorite, or just something random I could never focus on anywhere else.
30 Seconds to Mars – This Is War
This album is always my go to for a great work out. Every track is inspirational and energetic, and once I put my ear buds in it’s as if I can feel that in my bones. This album just gives me the feeling like I can do anything; even if it is just as simple as beating my best time when running a mile. It doesn’t hurt that both Leto brother’s are in pretty much perfect physical shape either.
Go Radio – Lucky Street
Go Radio is that band for me. It’s that band that can lift my spirits as soon as one of their records start playing, no matter what. Lucky Street had just come out when I seriously got into going to the gym so it’s always the record I turn on for the days when I seriously don’t want to work out. I know it will make my time at the gym a little bit easier.
Neon Trees – Habits
Anyone who has ever seen a Neon Trees show can obviously see why this album is a gym jam must. If anyone can work it, it’s front man Tyler or drummer Elaine, and that in and of itself if enough to get anyone pumped for a good workout.
Anberlin – Dark Is The Way, Light Is The Place
I’ve always had a soft spot for Anberlin and especially for this record. It’s driving and passionate with a heavy edge and I found it was perfect to keep me going at the gym. A treadmill can get excruciatingly boring but trying to transport my mind to an Anberlin show through this album always helps.
Artist Vs. Poet – Favorite Fix
Although Artist Vs. Poet no longer exists in the way they are captured on this record, Favorite Fix was the soundtrack to some of my greatest memories. It’s bright and upbeat and that state of mind is always perfect for a great for the gym.
