Wonderful sports day / athletic festival

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

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

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 Newest Tracks to Liven Up Sports Day (221–230)

Positive screamKanjani∞

FNS Music Summer Festival ~ Kanjani Eight ~ Positive Scream!

Positive screamKanjani∞

The bright and energetic songs of Kanjani Eight are perfect for a fun, exciting sports day! Among them, “Maemuki Scream!” released in 2015, is a track that serves as a cheer song for those about to take on a competition.

At sports days, there are not only people who are good at events but also many who find them challenging.

This song gives energy to those who feel it’s not their strong suit, encouraging them to focus on having fun first and keep a positive attitude! How about playing it during the sprint races or the entrance march to lift up the children participating and energize the whole atmosphere?

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Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI “Highest Altitude” ONE PIECE Lyric MV

Maximum reachSEKAI NO OWARI

Released in September 2023, this exhilarating track was also chosen as the 25th opening theme for the anime One Piece.

Set to an up-tempo 132 BPM, it carries a powerful message characteristic of SEKAI NO OWARI.

The lyrics’ worldview—turning one’s weaknesses into allies to soar higher—feels perfect for encouraging challenges at a school sports day.

The four-on-the-floor dance beat and brass sections are ideal for sprint races or flag dances.

The song is also included on the album Nautilus.

As an energetic anthem that can excite listeners of all ages, it’s sure to shine at any sports day event!

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Racing into the NightYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Racing into the Night” Official Music Video

Racing into the NightYOASOBI

Formed by Ayase, who was active as a Vocaloid producer, and the singer ikura, this duo’s style of creating music based on novels has become a major talking point among younger generations.

Their signature song, “Yoru ni Kakeru,” features a pleasantly up-tempo piano rock sound and is especially popular among students familiar with Vocaloid.

Thanks to its brisk tempo, it’s perfect not only for running events but also as background music for a variety of sports.

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Summer Colorsyuzu

Natsuiro

Summer Colorsyuzu

Now widely regarded as the quintessential folk duo in the J-POP scene and beloved by listeners across generations, the music group Yuzu continues to captivate audiences.

Their first single, Natsuiro, was also their major-label debut, and it remains one of their signature songs to this day.

With lyrics that evoke youthful memories and a light, acoustic guitar-driven ensemble, it’s the perfect track to bring color to a major sporting event like a school sports day.

Its catchy melody makes you want to sing along, lifting your spirits with a refreshing pop tune.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Uppercut!Appu Appu Gāruzu (Kari)

Uppercut! Music Video Up Up Girls (Kari)

Uppercut!Appu Appu Gāruzu (Kari)

This song is by the idol group Up Up Girls (Kari), whose name itself carries the meaning of continual improvement, making it a good fit for sports settings.

It’s fast-paced dance music with a Eurobeat-like vibe, but the persistent presence of piano tones throughout draws you into the track.

The title evokes boxing, yet rather than combat, it expresses a struggle with oneself and a determination to better oneself.

It’s a track that emphasizes fun while retaining strength, so it seems like a song that can energize you as you face sports.

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In conclusion

We introduced energetic songs that will liven up the sports day.

A few years from now, the kids might reminisce, saying, “They played that song at the sports day back then, didn’t they?” Choose tracks that perfectly match the vibe of each event—like the entrance march, sprint, relay, dance, and ball toss—to make the sports day even more spectacular!