[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!
- [Sports Day] Songs for footraces: tracks that make kids want to run [classics & J-pop]
- [Sports Day] Entrance songs that will hype the crowd! A comprehensive roundup from classics to the latest hits
- [Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM!
- From classics to fan favorites! A catalog of music and BGM to liven up your sports day
- Top Songs to Hype Up Sports Day and Athletic Festivals [2026]
- [Dance Tracks] Perfect for School Sports Days! A Curated Selection of Fun, Popular Songs to Dance To [2026]
- [March] Carefully selected popular songs recommended for entrance and exit at sports days and athletic festivals!
- [2026] Curated J-POP to Energize Sports Days and Athletic Festivals! Also Great as Entrance Music
- Popular songs recommended for nursery school sports days! A roundup of classic crowd-pleasers and the latest hits
- Recommended exit songs for sports day: A collection of tracks that are perfect for a brisk, quick-march exit.
- Cheer songs to hype up the sports day! A collection of motivational tracks recommended for kids
- Get Fired Up! A Collection of Anime Songs to Hype Up Your Sports Day and Athletic Festival
- Perfect for sports day parachute routines! Recommended J-pop songs
[Marching, Races, and Dance] Energetic Songs and the Newest Tracks to Liven Up Sports Day (141–150)
Mischief Ninja Arts Manual
The key is its exciting, upbeat feel! Let me introduce “Itazura Ninpōchō.” Some children just love playing pranks, don’t they? This time, let’s do a cute dance to “Itazura Ninpōchō,” which has mischief as its theme! It’s a good idea to adapt the choreography to the children’s ages and interests.
Since it’s up-tempo with a unique sound, a comical choreography will fit well.
Dive in with a sense of excitement and have fun!
Hattori-kun Ondo
From the ninja-themed anime Ninja Hattori-kun, we present the song Hattori-kun Ondo.
Ninja Hattori-kun is a Japanese gag manga in which Hattori leaves his village to continue his training in Tokyo, where he gets caught up in various incidents.
Let’s try dancing the Hattori-kun Ondo from the beloved national anime Ninja Hattori-kun.
The key points are its tune, which evokes an ondo performed at events like Bon Odori, and lyrics that weave in ninja-specific episodes!
Gymnastics, transform! Ninja jump!
Let’s dance while pretending to be ninjas that kids love! We’re introducing “Taiso: Henshin! Ninja-Jan!” When you want children to walk quietly, try saying, “Let’s walk like ninjas!” and they’ll sparkle with excitement, become little ninjas, and show you their stealthy steps.
This time, let’s fully become ninjas along with “Taiso: Henshin! Ninja-Jan!” Some children may even get into character and give you a sharp, ninja-like gaze.
Be sure to try it out!
[Marching, Footraces, and Dance] Energetic Songs and the Newest Tracks to Hype Up Your Sports Day (151–160)
Ninja Hattori-kun
Become a ninja with a beloved TV anime opening song! Introducing Ninja Hattori-kun.
Set to Ninja Hattori-kun, the opening theme from the well-known ninja-themed anime Ninja Hattori-kun, let’s dance while pretending to be the ninjas kids love! For costumes, using nonwoven fabric or colored plastic bags makes them easy for teachers and parents to make and easy for children to put on and take off—highly recommended! Be sure to give it a try.
I can only face forwardAKB48
This is a breathtaking AKB48 track distinguished by a rock-inspired sound that embodies a powerful cry from the heart.
The lyrics, infused with a resolve to keep moving forward, together with the dynamic melody, fill listeners with courage and energy.
Released in February 2014 and recording an initial sales figure of approximately 1.091 million copies, the song was also used in commercials for Dip’s job information site “Baitoru.” Its powerful performance and passionate message make it a reliable ally in moments when you want to inspire unity and motivation—such as a tug-of-war at a school sports day.
A bouquet for meAdo
A gently sung piece about self-affirmation and a forward-looking attitude was released by Ado in March 2025.
While empathizing with the feelings we experience in everyday life, it carries a message that encourages recognizing oneself and finding the courage to take a step toward tomorrow.
With a fresh melody crafted by HoneyWorks layered with Ado’s powerful yet delicate vocals, the result is a heartwarming track.
The song has been chosen as the new commercial theme for Coca-Cola’s canned coffee brand Georgia and is scheduled to be included on the album “Ado’s Best Album.” It’s a perfect tune to start your morning, to encourage someone, or to give yourself a boost of courage—and it will continue to brighten the hearts of many.
I am the strongest.Ado
A powerful anthem of will and resolve from the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.
Released by Ado in June 2022, the song is notable for lyrics brimming with self-affirmation that wells up from deep within and heartfelt care for one’s companions.
The energetic, exhilarating rock sound crafted by Motoki Omori of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE and Ado’s distinctive vocals truly shine.
The song expresses the feelings of the film’s character Uta, depicting the process of acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and anxieties while overcoming them to grow stronger.
It’s a perfect track for rallying yourself at a sports day or athletic festival, or when you want to strive together with your teammates.