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
Anison (1–10)
Curtain callYuuri
This is a song by Yuuri featuring an exhilarating, up-tempo rock melody and lyrics filled with hope as two people strive to understand each other.
It powerfully and directly sings of the protagonist’s strong resolve to keep pursuing the path they believe in, while showing empathy toward those they stand opposed to.
A rousing cheer song that gives you a push to chase dreams together with teammates at sports days and athletic festivals, it was released in July 2024 and chosen as the opening theme for Season 7, Cour 2 of the popular anime My Hero Academia.
It’s a track we especially recommend to everyone competing with friends, helping one another, and giving their all toward their goals.
BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi
A song released by Kenshi Yonezu in January 2025 as the opening theme for the TV anime “Medalist,” set in the world of figure skating.
Its driving rhythm and powerful melody vividly capture the heat and dynamism of sport.
Yonezu, a fan of the original work, personally approached the production to create the theme, reflecting his deep affection for the series.
The themes of “challenge” and “growth” depicted here resonate strongly with listeners, alongside the skaters who shine on the ice.
When it was first unveiled in the anime’s non-credit opening sequence, it drew a huge response, amplified by the characters’ passionate performance scenes.
It’s a perfect track for anyone striving through sports or aiming for a goal together with their teammates.
Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya
Tatsuya Kitani’s song “Ao no Sumika” captivates with a beautiful, heart‑stirring melody that feels like a snapshot of a fleeting moment in youth.
Released in July 2023, it drew attention as the opening theme for the second season of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen.
The lyrics, which portray lost time and feelings that never reached their destination, resonate deeply with listeners.
Its sense of speed and drive makes it perfect for school sports days and athletic festivals.
It’s a track I especially recommend to those who are right in the midst of their youth.
Become a flowerRyokushokushakai
This is a song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai that was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “The Apothecary Diaries.” The song conveys the importance of living true to yourself, singing about embracing the genuine beauty within.
It’s a highly message-driven track with a catchy melody and addictive sound that will have your body moving before you know it.
It’s sure to bring a lively, festive atmosphere to any sports festival or field day!
peace signYonezu Kenshi
Rather than pumping you up right from the start, this brisk yet stoic track gradually lifts your spirits.
The lyrics—“Raise your peace sign, you’re a hero”—are a perfect cheer for athletes aiming for victory.
Anison (11–20)
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!
Classic (11–20)
When it comes to background music for sports days, many people probably associate it strongly with classical pieces.
Classic tracks are especially fitting for running events like sprints and relays, as well as team competitions like ball tosses and giant ball rolling.
You may often think, “I recognize this tune, but I don’t know its title,” so try finding pieces for your events from the selections introduced below.
Reference article: [Sports Day BGM] A selection of classic tunes that liven up the venue
Classic (1–10)
El CapitanJohn Philip Sousa
This is a bold marching piece with a dazzling, buoyant melody that is highly appealing.
Originating from an operetta, it evokes a grand atmosphere that conveys the courage and determination of the protagonist, leader of a rebel army.
Premiered in 1896, it remains one of John Philip Sousa’s most popular works and is beloved as a staple for wind ensembles and military bands.
It also drew attention in Japan, having been selected as the required piece for the workplace division at the 4th All-Japan Band Competition in 1956.
It is perfect for scenes that call for a solemn ambiance, such as entrance marches at sports festivals or award ceremonies.
Combining strength and elegance, this work offers a bracing, uplifting experience that makes listeners sit up straight.