Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power
At those crucial moments—like during daily practice or right before an important match—music stays by our side and gives us tremendous strength.
Many of you probably listen to your favorite songs to boost your spirits as you head into those special moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out uplifting, heart-stirring anthems that raise your motivation.
From upbeat tracks that fire up your fighting spirit, to relaxing numbers that wrap you in a sense of calm, to athletes’ personal favorites—we’ve gathered a wide variety of songs.
We hope you’ll find them helpful.
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[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Athlete Favorites?! Power-Packed Anthems and Victory Tracks (101–110)
Flying BAK-69
The song that became famous as gymnast Kōhei Uchimura’s “fight song” is Flying B by AK-69, a rapper based in both New York and Japan.
It’s said that Uchimura also listened to it before competing at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where the men’s gymnastics team won gold for the first time in three Games.
The lyrics fire you up for victory, making it a perfect pre-competition track.
If you haven’t heard it yet, definitely give it a listen!
I’m a BelieverSPYAIR
SPYAIR is a four-piece rock band that launched activities under a new lineup in 2023 and is poised for even greater leaps ahead.
Their 17th single, “I’m a Believer,” used as the opening theme for the TV anime Haikyu!! Second Season, kicks off with a exhilarating guitar riff that instantly pumps you up.
Its message—keep moving forward no matter what others say or how rough things get—gives you the courage to believe in your own dreams.
The driving rock ensemble is irresistibly uplifting, making this a perfect track to hear before a big moment.
Starting Line ~ A New BreezeBaba Toshihide
This is the song that resonated deeply with Mio Yamanaka, a women’s rugby football player, when she was injured and listened to it at a friend’s recommendation.
It’s a track by Toshihide Baba, a singer-songwriter from Saitama Prefecture, released in 2007 as his 13th single.
His warm, heartfelt vocals are deeply moving.
The lyrics carry a message: even if you fail, keep trying again and again!
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
This is a song that cyclist Yuta Wakimoto says he has loved since high school.
It’s a signature track by BUMP OF CHICKEN, a four-member rock band from Chiba Prefecture.
It was released in 2001 as their second major-label single.
Featured as an insert song in the drama “Tentai Kansoku” (Stargazing), it became a big hit.
The fast-paced guitar sound feels great to listen to.
Unstoppable ha~haYazawa Eikichi
Soccer player Sei Muroya, who loves fiery tracks, listens to this one before matches.
It’s a song by the eternal rock star Eikichi Yazawa.
It was included on his 14th album, Tokyo Night, released in 1986.
Many athletes use it as their walkout or entrance music, and it’s a very popular track.
His vocals are manly and super cool!
Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved!? Power-Packed Anthems and Victory Tracks (111–120)
All my treasuresOda Yūji
This work, passionately sung by Yuji Oda, who served as the main anchor for the World Athletics Championships for many years, conveys his heartfelt emotions.
It depicts hope for the future, bonds with companions, and gratitude toward loved ones.
The message that a smile is an irreplaceable treasure overlaps with the earnest dedication of athletes, stirring up a deeply moving sense of inspiration.
Released as a single in July 2007 and also included on the album “Arigatou” the same year, the song was used as the TBS network’s World Athletics theme from 2005 to 2022.
Oda’s own performance at the 2007 Osaka championships was particularly memorable.
It’s a track that affirms all the efforts and memories up to now and gives you strength to face the future.
For anyone striving toward a goal, it’s a powerful push forward.
Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA
This song became a massive hit as the theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
I’m sure many people have heard it across various media like TV, radio, and YouTube, and when it comes to a hype song for a big moment, this one is a perfect fit! If you listen while reading the lyrics, there’s no doubt you’ll be able to face the match with unwavering conviction.
Just like the protagonist who keeps confronting one challenge after another, it’s a track that stirs up your fighting spirit as you head into competition.
The intense, loud-rock sound also boosts your motivation!
