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, Races, and Dance] Energetic Songs and the Newest Tracks to Hype Up Your Sports Day (21–30)

BRAVENEW!arashi

ARASHI – BRAVE [Official Music Video]
BRAVENEW!arashi

It’s a compelling number featuring a powerful, stadium-filling chorus and a gritty rock sound.

The themes center on solidarity with teammates and the will to press forward, and the rap part penned by Sho Sakurai further heightens the tension and exhilaration of sports.

Released in September 2019 to mark the 20th anniversary of Arashi, the single was used as the image song for Nippon TV’s “Rugby 2019.” It continued to be used during broadcasts of the same tournament in 2023.

Brimming with overwhelming power and a grand sense of scale, it’s perfect as a fight song to fire up heated events like cavalry battles and tug-of-war at school sports days.

Why not raise your voices together with your friends and send your cheers?

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

[Lilac] Mrs. GREEN APPLE 'Flag & Easy Dance' — A simple arrangement dance you can perform at sports festivals and recitals!
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

A heartwarming cheer song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that gently embraces the youthful days where hope and anxiety coexist.

While softly accepting the loneliness and inner struggles we carry as time goes by, it conveys the message: “Cherish yourself just as you are.” Released in April 2024 as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery,” it won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

Singing of unforgettable memories and bonds with loved ones, this song is also perfect for sports day dances.

It fosters a sense of unity with friends and helps create precious, lasting moments.

Standing on stageNEW!YOASOBI

YOASOBI "Stand on the Stage" Official Music Video
Standing on stageNEW!YOASOBI

YOASOBI’s song “Taking the Stage.” Released as a digital single in 2024, many of you have probably heard it as NHK’s sports theme across various live broadcasts.

The lyrics portray the struggles of athletes facing competition and the thrill of stepping onto the stage, powerfully pushing listeners forward.

With a guitar-driven, rock-leaning sound full of speed, it’s perfect for school sports day dances, too.

Move big to the strong rhythm, and the audience will naturally break into smiles.

Let’s cheer on children’s best performances with this song packed with messages to fire you up!

Only One StoryNEW!Poketto Monsutā

[Official] Pokémon Anime “Rayquaza Rising” Opening Theme: “Only One Story”
Only One StoryNEW!Poketto Monsutā

This song was used as the opening theme for the anime “Pokémon” and was released in October 2024 as ZEROBASEONE’s original Japanese track.

It was later included on the EP “PREZENT,” released in January 2025.

It’s a bright, refreshing cheer song that encourages those setting out on an adventure, featuring a catchy melody.

With a fun rhythm that kids can quickly pick up, it’s perfect as a dance number for everyone to move to at a school sports day.

Filled with uplifting words, this track will get everyone moving with energy and liven up the entire venue!

Happinessarashi

ARASHI – Happiness [Official Music Video]
Happinessarashi

This is the 20th single by Arashi, a five-member group that, as a national idol group, showcases each member’s versatility beyond music.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Yamada Taro Monogatari,” it is one of their signature tracks.

Its driving beat and catchy pop melody are sure to excite children.

It’s a perfect number for a sports day held under the open sky, letting the audience get pumped up while watching the performances.

ultramarineYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video
ultramarineYOASOBI

A signature work by YOASOBI that vividly expresses young people’s passion and pursuit of dreams through striking lyrics.

Released in September 2020, the song gained broad recognition after being featured in Bourbon’s “Alfort Mini Chocolate” commercial.

In 2021, it was also selected as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Dance ONE Project ’21,” adding flair to high school students’ dance performances.

Evoking the image of blue light, the piece impressively portrays the challenges of self-expression and creativity, making it perfect for school sports-day entrance marches and dance performances.

It’s a song that lets everyone share in the unique sense of unity of a sports festival and the courage to take the first step toward their dreams.

DoraemonHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Doraemon (Official Video)
DoraemonHoshino Gen

This is a song used as the theme for the film Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Treasure Island and as the opening theme for the Doraemon TV series.

Doraemon has been loved across generations throughout the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras.

This song is often used at sports days, and in addition to the official dance, many videos featuring simple choreography that children can easily follow have been released.

It’s a highly recommended track that can be used in various settings, such as school sports days and local community events.