From classics to fan favorites! A catalog of music and BGM to liven up your sports day
Many people struggle with choosing songs for sports day, don’t they?
Here, we introduce perfect tracks for each scene—from classic staples ideal for sports day to upbeat J-pop and Western hits that get everyone excited!
Well-known songs can hype up the crowd, but using the same ones every year can get old…
We’ve curated a selection of tracks to solve that problem.
You’ll find refreshing tunes that make you want to start running and motivational anthems that give you courage.
Use this article as a guide to make your sports day even more fun and exciting!
- Songs that hype up the athlete entrance at school sports festivals
- [Sports Day] Songs for footraces: tracks that make kids want to run [classics & J-pop]
- [Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM!
- [Sports Day] Recommended songs for tug-of-war: powerful BGM that ignites your fighting spirit
- Carefully selected J-pop to liven up sports days and athletic festivals! Also great as entrance songs.
- [March, Foot Races, Dance] Energetic songs and the latest hits to liven up a sports day
- Recommended Songs for Group Gymnastics: A Collection of Tracks to Elevate Your Routine [2026]
- [Sports Day BGM] A selection of classic tunes that liven up the venue
- Top Songs to Hype Up Sports Day and Athletic Festivals [2026]
- Get Fired Up! A Collection of Anime Songs to Hype Up Your Sports Day and Athletic Festival
- [To All Athletes] Inspirational Sports Anthems & Empowering Theme Songs
- [Dance Songs] Recommended for school sports days and athletic festivals! A curated selection of popular tracks that are fun to dance to
- Cheer songs to hype up the sports day! A collection of motivational tracks recommended for kids
Relay race (21–30)
Heavy rotationAKB48
Beginning with a driving electric guitar and Yuko Oshima’s catchy callouts, this track stands out in idol pop for its exceptional sense of exhilaration.
Its straightforward declaration of love gives listeners a refreshing rush and stirs an irresistible urge to break into a run.
Released in August 2010, AKB48’s single, together with its music video directed by Mika Ninagawa—renowned for its vibrant, pop-infused visuals—left a lasting impression on many.
It’s perfect for moments like sports festivals and athletic events, where participants and spectators alike want to come together and get fired up.
Freak It! ft. Tokyo Ska Paradise OrchestraMAN WITH A MISSION
It’s a lively track that blends a high-velocity rock sound with ska elements.
Created through a collaboration between MAN WITH A MISSION and Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra in February 2018, the song expresses a burning fighting spirit and a will to charge into the future.
Its party-ready, fiery sound and powerful message encouraging free, unrestrained ideas and actions make a strong impression.
Chosen as the official theme song for Super Rugby’s Sunwolves and included on the album “Chasing the Horizon,” this piece has captivated many as a go-to track to energize sports scenes, parties, and of course, school sports day relays.
Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet
A powerful rock sound that pierces the dark night and milet’s clear, transparent vocals make this collaboration with MAN WITH A MISSION unforgettable.
It unfolds a dramatic world of courage in the face of adversity and the bonds shared with cherished companions.
Released in May 2023, it drew attention as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc.
Portraying friends joining forces and taking steady steps toward their dreams, this track is sure to stir the heart as march music for sports festivals and field days, or as uplifting BGM for performances.
GONGWANIMA
Starting with a powerful intro where the guitar riff rings out, this fiery track from WANIMA delivers a exhilarating rock sound and an empowering message that resonates deeply.
Released in July 2019 as the theme song for the feature-length anime One Piece: Stampede, the song portrays the feelings of adventurers sailing across vast seas, emphasizing a strong will to face hardships and the importance of bonds with comrades.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you give it your all and step up to the challenge—or when you want to shout out and push yourself forward.
Chu, diversity.ano
This is an aggressive track by ano, marked by dynamic vocals and an energetic sound.
It features a powerful beat that makes you want to move and carries a message about valuing your true self.
Released in November 2022, the song was used as the ending theme for Episode 7 of the anime Chainsaw Man, captivating many fans.
In March 2023, a performance video on the music program THE FIRST TAKE was also released, sparking new buzz.
It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to embrace their individuality without fearing being different.
Dance your heart out with friends at a school sports festival, and you’re sure to make amazing memories.
R.Y.U.S.E.I.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu
A signature number by Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE, expressed through a driving EDM sound and a beautiful world like shooting stars coloring the night sky.
Centered on the themes of dreams and the bonds of friendship, it carries a message about cherishing every moment.
Its exhilarating beat and powerful performance uplift listeners and give them the courage to move forward.
Released as a single in June 2014, it was used as the campaign song for Tokyo City Keiba (TCK) and won the 56th Japan Record Award.
With its up-tempo rhythm and refreshing, summery feel, it’s popular as a relay or cheering song at school sports days and competitions.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to savor the thrill of running full speed ahead or chase dreams together with treasured friends.
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.