Do you listen to music when you run marathons or go jogging?
In fact, listening to music while running comes with big benefits!
The biggest advantage is that matching your stride to the tempo can act like a pacemaker and help you keep a steady pace.
Plus, listening to your favorite tracks or motivational songs can boost your morale, helping some people make it all the way to the finish.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs with comfortable running tempos and uplifting anthems that boost motivation!
You’re sure to get that extra push to hang in there a little longer.
Just be sure to stay aware of your surroundings—and bring these tunes along as your companions for marathons and jogs!
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- [Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM!
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- Perfect for sports or driving! High-energy, fast-paced tracks that will get you pumped
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- [Today's Cheer Song] To everyone giving it your all! A gem of an inspiring anthem that resonates with the heart
- Just by listening, you’ll feel braver! Cheer songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- [A Life-Affirming Anthem] An Encouraging Song to Cheer You On
Recommended music for marathons: motivational songs that give you the courage to run through (1–10)
Don’t give upZARD
It’s one of ZARD’s signature songs and is also famous for always being sung during the annual 24-Hour TV marathon in the summer.
If you listen to it when you’re running and feel like you’re about to lose or give up, it instantly fires you up.
New Treasure IslandSakanakushon
It’s a song by the rock band Sakanaction.
Released in September 2015 as their 11th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the film “Bakuman.” With its pop, danceable sound, it instantly lifts your spirits.
The lyrics convey a commitment to important promises and the determination to pursue dreams, expressing the mindset of people dedicated to creative work.
It’s a perfect track for marathons or your daily workouts—sure to give you a motivating push.
Just a little morechay
Since this song was also used as the theme for a women’s ekiden, I think it’s perfect for marathons.
The music video features marathon footage, so it makes you want to run just by watching and listening.
Let this track give you a boost and pick up the pace!
Mahalomiwa
This upbeat, cheerful song that makes your heart dance is by Tokyo-born singer-songwriter miwa and was released in 2023.
Written as the official song for the Honolulu Marathon 2023/2024 and the Hawai‘i’s Half Marathon Hapalua 2024, it features a refreshing melody that evokes the Hawaiian breeze and lyrics packed with messages of encouragement for runners.
With ukulele tones and the sound of waves woven into its lively, up-tempo arrangement, it captures Hawaii’s sense of openness.
It’s a perfect track to accompany marathons or a jog.
Body Feels EXITAmuro Namie
This song marked a turning point in Namie Amuro’s career.
Released in October 1995, it drew attention as her first single from avex trax.
It features a groundbreaking sound produced by Tetsuya Komuro and memorable choreography by KABA.chan.
It was also used in a commercial for Taito’s home karaoke system “X-55,” which rapidly boosted Amuro’s popularity.
The lyrics, which portray self-discovery, growth, and romantic feelings, resonate deeply with listeners.
Its lively tempo is sure to serve as a perfect pacemaker!
LOVE 2000hitomi
One of hitomi’s signature songs is also famous because Naoko Takahashi, who won the gold medal in the women’s marathon at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, used to listen to it during training and before races to pump herself up.
As a result, it became strongly associated with marathons.
Million MilesLittle Glee Monster
A powerful number that captures the stillness of a winter morning and the heat that rises from it! This song was written as the theme for Fuji TV’s “SUZUKI Sports Special: 2022 Mount Fuji Women’s Ekiden,” during the first winter after Little Glee Monster entered its new lineup.
Their greatest weapon—their rich, layered harmonies—mirrors the earnest spirit of an ekiden, where teammates pass the sash to one another, and it sets listeners’ hearts ablaze.
Featured as the closing track on the EP “Fanfare,” released in March 2023, this piece is a message song brimming with determination to forge the path ahead.
It’s perfect for those starting challenges in a new environment or teams striving toward a common goal.