KPTM FOX 42: Omaha News, Sports and Weather; kptm.com |Crank up the tunes: the impact of music on exercise

Have you ever used music to "psych" yourself up during a workout? Anyone who has ever gone on a long run with their headphones or taken an energetic spinning class knows that music can make the time pass more quickly.

Now, there is some science behind the effects of music on exercise. New research shows what many music/exercise enthusiasts have known for years: listening to upbeat music during exercise can increase the intensity and speed of your workout.

But why? Several factors seem to contribute to music's motivational qualities:

Mood enhancer. Music can lift your spirits, creating a more positive attitude and encouraging that "get up and go" feeling.

• Music can be a distraction. Listening to upbeat, positive tunes may cancel out any tiredness you feel toward the end of your workout.
• This can help you push through some of the more uncomfortable feelings by blocking out the little voice in your brain telling you it's time to quit.

Synchronization. Matching your pace and time with that of the music's tempo is known as synchronization. It tends to happen automatically when you choose certain music that matches your stride or even heartbeat rhythm.

• Research has shown that upbeat music with a strong beat and rhythm enhances cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, brisk walking, spinning or stair-climbing.
• Synchronizing movements with music also enables athletes to perform more efficiently. In one recent study, those cycling to upbeat music required 7 percent less oxygen to do the same work as others cycling to background music with no strong beat or tempo.

Coordination. Music can have a positive influence on motor skills. Not only can this cut the risk of injury, but it can also help those who are suffering from a movement disorder, such as paralysis following a stroke.

• One small study showed that moving to music improved motor coordination in people with Parkinson's disease.
• Music can also make physical therapy more fun. This keeps the exerciser motivated to continue to learn and master skills.

So if you struggle with your workouts or are just looking to improve your performance, consider adding music to your routine. And with the right mix, your brain and feet will be in perfect harmony.