Songs that hype up Sports Day and Athletic Festivals: Japanese Music / J-Pop Artist Rankings [2026]

peace signYonezu Kenshi6rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

A powerful song themed around challenge and growth makes the perfect cheer anthem to support practice for sports days and athletic festivals.

Included on the album BOOTLEG, released in November 2017, and chosen as the opening theme for Season 2 of the anime My Hero Academia, this track sings about the importance of moving forward by overcoming past failures and regrets.

With its bright, energetic sound, it fills listeners with courage and hope.

It’s sure to be a song that gives a push to everyone working hard toward their sports day or athletic festival.

migratory bird[Alexandros]7rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

Released in June 2015, “Wataridori” has been featured in numerous commercials and TV show theme songs, and is also cherished as a staple for school sports days and athletic festivals.

The lyrics carry a message that even if things are tough, if you keep moving forward, a bright future surely awaits.

That sentiment will resonate not only with athletes gearing up for a match, but also with young people who feel uncertain about their future.

If you ever find yourself thinking, “What’s the point of trying so hard?” please give it a listen.

It will surely help you face forward again.

POKÉDANCEnanahira8rank/position

[Official] “POKÉDANCE” Dance Practice by ENHYPEN — featuring partner Pokémon from past generations dancing

A lively, upbeat tune blending pop and dance music has been born.

Created to celebrate Pokémon Day in February 2024, it was released alongside an adorable animated music video where partner Pokémon from each region dance with their Trainers.

The lyrics, themed around friendship and everyday joys, warmly embrace the listener’s heart.

Though short, its catchy melody and charming vocals make it perfect for energizing school sports days and athletic festivals.

It’s also great for practicing dance—a song that brings smiles to everyone.

Highly recommended not only for elementary school sports days, but also for anyone who wants to enjoy dancing with friends!

I am the strongest.Ado9rank/position

[Ado] I’m the Strongest (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)

A powerful anthem of will and resolve from the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.

Released by Ado in June 2022, the song is notable for lyrics brimming with self-affirmation that wells up from deep within and heartfelt care for one’s companions.

The energetic, exhilarating rock sound crafted by Motoki Omori of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE and Ado’s distinctive vocals truly shine.

The song expresses the feelings of the film’s character Uta, depicting the process of acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and anxieties while overcoming them to grow stronger.

It’s a perfect track for rallying yourself at a sports day or athletic festival, or when you want to strive together with your teammates.

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai10rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

This is a dynamic, invigorating track that dramatically portrays an all-out sprint.

Looking back as an adult, it brings to mind that fiery page of youth when we ran with everything we had.

Produced in July 2024 as the theme song for ABEMA’s “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita Summer Vacation 2024,” the piece achieves an epic sense of scale through a collaboration with a 40-piece orchestra.

Its powerful melody and driving sound gently encourage young people to move forward without fear of taking on new challenges.

It’s also an ideal choice for background music at school sports days and athletic events.