[Hype Songs] A must-listen for athletes and sports lovers! A curated selection of tracks that boost motivation
It’s no exaggeration to say that music is an essential element in enjoying sports.
For athletes, especially those facing an important match, music plays a crucial role in daily mental care as well.
This time, we’ve selected a variety of tracks—both Japanese and international—for people who enjoy sports regularly and for athletes alike.
Rather than focusing on sports-related themes, we picked songs based on lyrics and sounds that boost motivation, so if you like high-energy tracks, you’re sure to find some favorites.
Now then, please sit back and enjoy!
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- [Baseball Songs] A Collection of Cheering Songs and Theme Music for High School Baseball, Professional Baseball, and Samurai Japan
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- Songs that make you feel positive when you listen. Top recommended cheer and positive tracks.
- [Fighting Spirit] Fired up! Spotlight on entrance themes of fighters and martial artists
- Take the first step!! Songs that give you courage, songs that make you persevere when you listen
[Songs That Get You Fired Up] A must-listen for athletes and sports lovers! Carefully selected tracks to boost your motivation (91–100)
Shape of YouEd Sheeran
Although this song’s lyrics are not about sports at all, its sound is known among athletes for boosting motivation and lifting spirits.
You could often hear it during matches.
Influenced in part by the imagery in the official music video, it gives you the courage to face challenges.
It’s like being under the spell of the genius Ed Sheeran.
Take on your match with this globally explosive hit!
O flowers now in full bloom,Kobukuro
It was released in 2014 as Kobukuro’s 24th single.
The song was used as the NHK theme for the Sochi Olympics and Paralympics, and it was played during many moving Olympic moments.
With this song, they appeared and performed at the 64th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen in 2013.
[Pump-Up Tracks] A Must-Listen for Athletes and Sports Fans! Carefully Selected Motivation-Boosting Songs (101–110)
FireworkKaty Perry
This is a song that gives courage to those who can’t take the first step, telling them, “A wonderful future is waiting for you!” When you’ve practiced so hard before a match but still can’t find your confidence, or when your opponent suddenly seems intimidating and you waver, listen to this track and fire yourself up! A shining result will surely follow!
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
Brimming with a sense of speed and a powerful lyric that resonates, this debut work was released in May 1995 and became a major hit, even being selected as the theme song for a TBS drama.
In 2012, it was sung together with children from areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, and it continues to inspire people across generations.
Its message—turning tears into strength and moving forward—is sure to leave a deep mark on athletes’ hearts as well.
It’s a must-listen before an important match or whenever you need a boost in motivation.
life-formHoshino Gen
A powerful song that awakens your fighting spirit.
Written, composed, and arranged by Gen Hoshino, this track delivers a life-affirming message that resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in August 2023 and selected as the theme song for both the World Athletics Championships and the Asian Games, it teaches the importance of discovering yourself amid competition and choices, and of affirming your own way of life and existence.
It’s perfect to play before an important match or any high-pressure moment—and equally recommended for those times in everyday life when you want to fire yourself up.
Why not give it a listen?
a winning battleToukyou Jihen
This piece was also chosen as the image song for WOWOW Tennis 2020.
It’s performed by Tokyo Jihen, a band whose members each boast exceptional musicianship.
The track’s pop yet edgy sound vividly evokes athletes fighting with everything they’ve got.
The English lyrics embody an unrelenting obsession with victory, and simply listening to it stirs your competitive spirit.
The song is included on the classic album “Sports,” released in February 2010.
It’s the perfect track to play when you want to sharpen your focus before a match or when you’re heading into a contest you absolutely cannot lose.
Be sure to check it out!
InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE
A track whose scorching sound bursts into listeners’ hearts with overwhelming force! Released by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE in July 2019, this song was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Fire Force.
Its fast-paced, exhilarating melody pairs perfectly with powerful lyrics, delivering uplifting energy to anyone who listens.
While it explores profound themes—life’s transience, the passage of time, and the meaning of living—it’s also marked by its positive message.
Give it a listen when you need a boost in motivation!