Songs That Make You Want to Run: Music for Running and Jogging to Get You Motivated!
What songs do you usually run to?
Of course, listening to your favorite tracks is the best, but don’t you sometimes feel like, “I want to try some newer songs too”?
In this article, we researched songs that go well with running and jogging.
From tracks with a driving sense of speed to motivational anthems that cheer you on, and even stadium anthems with an Olympic vibe—there’s a wide variety.
Be sure to take along some running songs that make you want to dash ahead!
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[Songs That Make You Want to Run] Music to Listen to While Running or Jogging. Tracks That Get You Motivated! (11–20)
Over DriveJUDY AND MARY
This is the seventh single by the legendary rock band JUDY AND MARY—an iconic name among female-fronted bands and one that fans still hope will reunite.
Known as one of their signature songs, it was featured in a commercial for the Toyota Corolla Touring Wagon and used as the ending theme for the 21st All-Japan High School Quiz Championship.
Its pleasant beat paired with a cute vocal timbre will make you forget your fatigue while running.
Rather than the high-intensity style often recommended for running, this is a refreshing rock number that keeps your feet moving lightly.
run, nightKaneyori Masaru
A refreshingly upbeat track that’s perfect for your runs.
Its exhilarating sound and lyrics that feel like sprinting through the night are striking.
Kaneyori Masaru’s powerful yet fragile vocals resonate deeply with listeners.
Included on the mini-album “Kakegaenaku Naritai,” released in October 2019, it was also chosen as the opening theme for NHK-FM’s radio program Music Line.
Recommended for moments when you want to face yourself or take a new step forward.
Listen to it on a night run, and your heart is sure to feel lighter.
Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā
A song packed with the kind of charm that makes you want to start running with a positive mindset.
Released in August 2018 as a single by Sambomaster, it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama Cheer☆Dan.
It carries a message of moving forward while valuing your true self, even when you’re carrying sadness or pain.
The driving rock sound and powerful lyrics are sure to give listeners a push.
It’s perfect for a morning run or when you need the courage to start something new.
You’ll surely feel energized by Sambomaster’s signature passionate encouragement!
GO GIRLRihwa
An uplifting cheer song celebrating the courage and friendship of women runners has arrived from Rihwa.
It features lyrics that portray the bonds between teammates and a powerful melody.
Released digitally in July 2024, the track has become beloved as the theme song for GOGIRL, a running community for women.
Centered on the joy of running and the importance of companionship, the song was created based on insights gained from actually going for runs.
It has also drawn attention for being produced entirely by women creators.
It’s perfect not only for runners but also for anyone ready to take a new step forward.
How about adding it to your morning jog or runs with friends?
Don’t give upZARD
A song released by ZARD in 1993 as their sixth single.
Every year, this song is performed just before the finish line of the 24-Hour Television charity marathon, so it’s definitely one to listen to for your final push when running.
Don’t give up until the very end—run straight through to the finish line.
FLY AGAIN 2019MAN WITH A MISSION
“FLY AGAIN” is one of MAN WITH’s signature songs.
It’s a staple at both concerts and festivals, where everyone raises their hands and dances during the chorus.
The song was also chosen as the official cheer anthem for Japan’s rugby team, the Sunwolves, in 2019.
Just like the title “FLY AGAIN” suggests, the lyrics encourage you to take off and rise again, even if you’ve fallen or felt discouraged.
It couldn’t be a more perfect fit for a cheer song.
Songs That Make You Want to Run: Music for Running and Jogging. Motivational Tracks! (21–30)
star performerKing Gnu
Dubbed the “Tokyo New Mixture Style,” King Gnu is a four-piece mixture band dominating the J-pop scene with each member’s high-level musicianship and musicality.
This is their sixth single overall.
Featured in NTT Docomo’s 5G commercial, the track’s memorable chord progression and thrilling structure really get you pumped.
The arrangement is complex yet catchy and stirring, helping you lock into your run.
Before you know it, you’ll have covered more distance—this rock tune is highly recommended for running.