[Sports Day] Songs for footraces: tracks that make kids want to run [classics & J-pop]

Chaotic Wacha Life!NEW!FRUITS ZIPPER

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER “Hachamecha Wacha Life!”

FRUITS ZIPPER, an idol group that captivates many fans with a unique worldview rooted in Harajuku culture.

Selected as the opening theme for the popular anime Crayon Shin-chan starting in October 2025, this work is packed with the members’ deep love for a show they’ve cherished since childhood and a powerful energy that lifts your spirits.

Its bright, catchy sound makes you want to move your body and is a perfect BGM to color the major event that is a school sports day.

It will make the brisk exit even more lively and exciting.

The BeginningONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – The Beginning [Official Music Video]

This song delivers a deeply moving experience, with powerhouse vocals and a band sound so compelling it gives you goosebumps.

It captures the determination of those taking a new step forward and carries a message that pushes you from behind, radiating a power that resonates more with every listen.

Released in August 2012, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Rurouni Kenshin, and through its synergy with the movie, it captured the hearts of a wide audience, reaching No.

5 on the Oricon charts.

Perfect as BGM for time trials or relay events, this track offers a refreshing sense of speed and the courage to take on challenges—be sure to experience it.

I love you explosivelyNEW!M!ILK

M!LK – Explosively, I Love You (Official Music Video)

If you want to add a vibrant touch to a brisk exit, how about a powerful pop tune that expresses love on a cosmic scale? Sung by M!LK, this song celebrates everyday emotions with an epic sensibility.

Its catchy melody and high-energy rhythm will lift the atmosphere of the venue even further! Released in February 2026, it became a major talking point through performances on music shows and more.

The densely layered sound that shines with crowd calls and the propulsive beat are perfect for that refreshing feeling after giving it your all—or for a dashing, quick exit.

Chu, diversity.NEW!ano

ano “Chu, Diversity.” Music Video

A poppy, energetic band sound is indispensable for fast-paced BGM, right? Infused with themes of freedom of self-expression and embracing differences with others, this song encourages you to cherish individuality and live freely.

Released as a single by singer-songwriter ano in November 2022, it was selected as an ending theme for the anime Chainsaw Man.

It was later included on her first album, Neko Neko Tō Tō.

Its catchy melody and friendly rhythm give a bright boost to kids sprinting across the field.

It’s a perfect pick when you want to keep the excitement of a sports day alive and exit with a smile.

StaRtNEW!Mrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – StaRt

An exhilarating uptempo tune that rings in a vivid new beginning, marked by a refreshing band ensemble and a bright, bouncing melody.

This track appears as the first song on Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s mini-album “Variety,” released in July 2015.

Also featured as an insert song in the TV anime “My Hero Academia,” it delivers a thrilling sense of uplift that makes listeners want to start something new, powered by a colorful, guitar-rock-driven progression.

Its propulsive rhythm will strongly push the backs of runners sprinting down the track.

Brimming with a will to take that first step, this high-velocity number is perfect for a heated relay event.

Turn it up and raise the voltage of the entire venue!

-ness; typicality; the quality/essence of being [X] (as in “X-ness” or “X-like character”)NEW!Ofisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Rashisa [Official Video]

This is a song that cheers on everyone who keeps moving forward while facing themselves.

Released by Official HIGE DANDism in August 2025 ahead of the film’s premiere, the track was chosen as the theme song for the feature-length anime “Hyaku-Emu,” which opened the following month.

Characterized by a band sound brimming with a sense of speed, the piece—crafted as vocalist Satoshi Fujihara reexamined himself—portrays a strong will to aim for the finish line despite doubt and inner conflict.

It carries an urgency that resonates with the world of the 100-meter dash, making it perfect as BGM for heated competitions like school sprint races and relays.

The exhilarating rush that bursts from the starting dash will greatly boost children’s motivation.

Mela!NEW!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a rock band that has gained popularity for its powerful high-tone vocals and modern pop sound.

Originally released digitally in April 2020 and included on the album “SINGALONG,” this track is known as one of their signature songs.

It drew attention through numerous tie-ins, including serving as the CM song for Dariya’s “Palty Coloring Milk” and a dance project on Nippon TV’s “Sukkiri.” Its uplifting, encouraging message and bouncing beat add even more heat to strong, tug-of-war–style competitions.

It’s an invigorating, high-energy tune that perfectly suits the fresh spirit of sports day, firing you up and raising the excitement.