RAG MusicAthletics
Wonderful sports day / athletic festival

[March, Foot Races, Dance] Energetic songs and the latest hits to liven up a sports day

When it comes to sports day music, many people might think of classical pieces like ‘Orpheus in the Underworld’ (Infernal Galop from ‘Orpheus in the Underworld’).

However, in recent years, more schools have been using pop songs and anime tracks as background music in addition to the classic staples, making the selection more diverse.

In this article, we’ll introduce lively songs that perfectly match the sports day atmosphere—not only long-standing classics but also popular J-POP tunes among elementary and middle school students.

Use this as a reference for your playlist!

[March, Sprint, Dance] Energetic songs and the latest tracks to liven up sports day (71–80)

NaiwaHatsuboshi Gakuen

Hatsuboshi Academy “Naiwa” Lyric Video (HATSUBOSHI GAKUEN – NAIWA)
NaiwaHatsuboshi Gakuen

It’s a heart-stirring track that embodies the world of “Gakuen Idolmaster,” which portrays the growth of its idols.

The song serves as the class anthem for the in-game event “Class Showdown: First Star Sports Festival,” energetically depicting both competitive spirit and the strong bonds between classmates.

Created entirely by Saeki youthK—from lyrics to arrangement—its dramatic soundscape greatly deepens your immersion in the story.

It’s the perfect number to play when you want to get fired up before a competition or to rally together with teammates toward a shared goal.

The track was released digitally in September 2025 and was later included on the album “Class Showdown: First Star Sports Festival SONG COLLECTION” in December of the same year.

GUTS!arashi

ARASHI “GUTS!” – Guitar Cover【 #Yumiki Erino Guitar video 】
GUTS!arashi

Even after suspending their group activities, the five-member idol group Arashi has continued to shine individually in various fields.

Their 43rd single, “GUTS!”, which was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama ‘Even If You’re Weak You Can Win: Mr.

Aoshi and the Ambitions of the Clumsy High School Baseball Players,’ lifts your spirits right from the choral intro.

Its positive lyrics are sure to fire you up for competitive moments like a school sports day.

With its catchy melody and pleasing ensemble, it’s a perfect number for background music.

Koo Lu LeeTōkyō Dizunīrando Beimakkusu

Koo-Loo-Lee 🤖🤍 From Baymax's Happy Ride [Original Choreography] Let's dance together!
Koo Lu LeeTōkyō Dizunīrando Beimakkusu

This is a lively, friendly dance track used for the Baymax’s Happy Ride attraction at Tokyo Disneyland.

It’s a song that lets you feel the fun of moving your body to the rhythm, featuring original choreography that uses both hands and feet.

Kids can pick it up quickly, making it perfect for school sports days and recreational dances.

Just like the attraction, it brings out energetic movements and smiles, brightening the atmosphere across the venue.

It’s also easy to add your own arrangements, encouraging creativity from each team—another big draw.

The content is easy to incorporate into recitals as well.

Highly recommended as a dance track that both performers and spectators can enjoy together.

[Marching, Races, Dance] Lively Songs and Latest Tracks to Energize Your Sports Day (81–90)

LuluAdo

Known for its powerful messaging and distinctive sound, Ado’s latest work vividly depicts a defiance of social rules.

The lyrics, which encourage creating one’s own rules without being bound by existing values, are particularly striking.

Released in July 2024, the track is included on her second album, Zanmu, and was also chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama Billion × School.

Ado’s commanding vocals and MARETU’s dark songwriting blend seamlessly, delivering a profound message to listeners.

While the lyrics are anti-establishment, the song’s intensity makes it a perfect fit for a sports day atmosphere.

Soldier, run.B’z

Many kids like cool rock songs.

One popular track in that vein is B’z’s “Tsuwamono, Hashiru” (Soldiers, Run).

As the title suggests, it has a driving, sprint-like sense of speed.

The song was chosen as the Japan national rugby team’s support song for Lipovitan D.

It’s great for pumping yourself up, and it also makes fitting BGM for sprints or relays.

Kaikai KitanEVE

Though he doesn’t show his face, Eve is an artist who’s won popularity among younger generations with his gentle voice and distinctive lyrics.

Kaikai Kitan is a catchy rock track chosen as the opening theme for season 1 of the hugely popular anime Jujutsu Kaisen.

The lyrics contain words that even we Japanese don’t hear very often, but the tune is so catchy that it’s easy to listen to.

Since it’s an up-tempo song, it’s a great choice for intense events like sprint races and comes highly recommended.

Chocolate DiscoPerfume

[Official Music Video] Perfume “Chocolate Disco”
Chocolate DiscoPerfume

Speaking of Perfume, they have many signature songs, but “Chocolate Disco” is a popular early release with an appealing electro sound.

As the title suggests, it’s themed around Valentine’s Day, and because the lyrics are minimal, it’s easy to memorize and hum along to—making it suitable even for events like children’s sports days.

Dancing in colorful, sparkly costumes enhances the authentic Perfume vibe, so paying attention to the outfits is a great idea.