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!

[Marching, Footraces, Dance] Energetic Songs and the Latest Tracks to Liven Up Sports Day (191–200)

sound ninjaFukuda Sho

“Oto Ninja” Dance Lecture [Sho Fukuda’s ~Wonderful World of Sound and Play~]
sound ninjaFukuda Sho

Let’s show off some ninja arts to the beat! Introducing Oto Ninja.

When you think of ninjas, many of you might picture them being skilled at hiding from enemies or making a quick escape.

This time, let’s transform into “Oto Ninja,” who perform ninja arts in time with sounds! If you listen closely, you can hear all kinds of sounds.

Move your body to match the sounds you hear, and you’ll also discover the joy of dancing.

Try expanding the conversation by asking, “What sound do you think this is?”

We are ninjas, indeed.Fukuda Sho

[Expression Play] We Are Ninjas, You Know / Sho Fukuda [Childcare/Kindergarten/Parenting/Ninja/Play Song/Children’s Song]
We are ninjas, indeed.Fukuda Sho

Perfect for the adorable vibe of infants, too! Presenting “We Are Little Ninjas.” At sports days and festivals, you can catch the cool performances of the preschool classes, but many people also look forward to the adorable moments from the infant classes, right? This time, let’s transform into ninjas with “We Are Little Ninjas,” a piece that even infant classes can try.

Its gentle melody and soft choreography are just right for the little ones.

Give it a try in your program!

KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi

A hit song by Kenshi Yonezu that gained popularity as the theme song for the anime Chainsaw Man.

It also drew attention for being a collaboration with Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu and for its unique music video.

If you’re planning a dance for a school sports day, why not try this track? With its up-tempo, cool vibe, both the kids dancing and the audience are sure to get into it! There’s no official choreography, but many original choreography videos have been released, so be sure to check them out.

PlazmaYonezu Kenshi

A January 2025 single by Kenshi Yonezu distinguished by its powerful beats and grand sound.

Written as the theme song for the feature film Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-, the piece stands out with energetic, defiant expression.

It portrays profound themes—hope for the future, trust in one’s inner strength, and the bonds forged amid battle—through a unique worldview.

The contrast between fierce electronic beats and delicate melodies brilliantly conveys both fighting spirit and the importance of teamwork.

As music for the tug-of-war, a sport where strength and hearts unite, it’s sure to ignite the fighting spirit of children.

[March, Sprint, Dance] Energetic songs and the latest tracks to liven up the sports day (201–210)

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 3 Execution BGMKanno Yugo

[JoJo Part 3 Execution BGM] Stardust Crusaders [Osaka Toin High School Brass Band]
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 3 Execution BGMKanno Yugo

A march that is uniquely Yugo Kanno, gripping audiences with its distinctive rhythm and powerful sound.

The rock-style melody centered on electric guitar and the weighty rhythm section are truly striking.

Although it was composed as background music, its ability to elevate tense entrance scenes showcases Kanno’s outstanding compositional talent to the fullest.

Use it for entrances and exits at a school sports day, and your entire class is sure to step in with fired-up expressions!

Maru Maru Mori MoriKaoru to Tomoki, tama ni Mukku.

Maru Maru Mori Mori! Video of Kaoru and Tomoki with choreography
Maru Maru Mori MoriKaoru to Tomoki, tama ni Mukku.

This catchy song, sprinkled with bright, upbeat wordplay and rhythmic onomatopoeia, is a heartwarming track that gently embraces children’s growth and everyday joys.

Its simple, easy-to-remember melody and lyrics depicting familiar happiness resonate honestly with listeners.

Released in May 2011 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Marumo no Okite,” it marked the debut of Kaoru to Tomoki, Tamani Mook.

It reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and also earned a spot in that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

With choreography everyone can enjoy and adorable vocals, it’s the perfect song not only as a cheer tune for sports days and athletic meets, but also for school events and any occasion where people want to get energized together.

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko

A Cruel Angel's Thesis / Yoko Takahashi [Avantgardey]
A Cruel Angel's ThesisTakahashi Yoko

An epic-scale anime song themed around angels and destiny that conveys courage and hope.

Released in October 1995, this track captivated many fans as the opening theme of the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, with lyrics that brilliantly express the world of the series and Yoko Takahashi’s powerful vocals.

It’s infused with a resolve to soar into the future, a readiness to grow, and a wish for self-fulfillment, overflowing with a moving message that stirs the heart.

Its energetic rhythm and dynamic sound will add dazzling excitement to any sports day event.