[To All Athletes] Inspirational Sports Anthems & Empowering Theme Songs

To the distant oneTakahashi Mariko

Mariko Takahashi “To the Distant One” live footage

Mariko Takahashi captivates listeners with expressive artistry grounded in her jazz sensibilities.

Released in 1994, this work was chosen as the NHK theme song for the Lillehammer Olympic broadcasts, adding a moving touch to the winter celebration.

Far more than a simple cheer song, its lyrics—like sending heartfelt thoughts to someone dear who is far away—and its grand melody resonate deeply with listeners.

How about sharing it when you want to cheer on someone important to you?

Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā

Sambomaster / Starting to Shine and Run - MUSIC VIDEO

Sambomaster always shows us hope and light in our hearts.

“Kagayakidashite Hashitteiku” is their 21st single and served as the theme song for the drama Cheer☆Dan starring Tao Tsuchiya.

Linking with the drama, this track is a cheer song that supports people who are chasing their dreams and working hard in sports.

The lyrics convey the words “Don’t give up,” which sink into your heart and give you the strength to overcome without losing heart.

It’s a highly recommended song to listen to when you’re working hard but can’t see any hope.

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Yuuko.S

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Soldier, run.B’z

B’z / Soldiers, Run -Tour Digest-

This song was used in a commercial as a cheer anthem for Japan’s national rugby team.

Since the commercial aired repeatedly during the 2019 World Cup, it’s strongly associated with rugby.

It’s a driving, high-energy support song filled with admiration for the players who keep running to the very end, fighting through mud.

Of course, it’s great beyond rugby, too!

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Tani Satoko

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crystallizationNakajima Kento

crystallization

This is a heart-stirring fight song that powerfully expresses a burning desire to triumph and the bonds with teammates.

Sung by Kento Nakajima, it will be included on the album “IDOL1ST,” scheduled for release in February 2026.

Created as the official TEAM JAPAN cheer song for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, it features an electro-dance sound produced by ☆Taku Takahashi of m-flo and uplifting vocals designed for full-venue singalongs.

It’s a track that supports everyone who puts in effort day after day and gives you the courage to step into the future!

Road to Gloryarashi

Arashi Road to Glory

It’s a song by the national idol group Arashi, included as the B-side of the single “Bittersweet,” released in February 2014.

It was chosen as the theme song for Nippon TV’s Sochi 2014 programming, supporting the athletes in their passionate challenges.

The emotional sound woven by piano and strings is striking, and the bittersweet yet powerful melody resonates like it echoes through the clear winter air, moving the heart.

With the earnest voices of the five members, it’s a cheering song that gives you energy for tomorrow.

HeroDUFF

Hero

Athletes who inspire us are truly like heroes.

When it comes to songs that cheer on such athletes, songs with a hero theme are the perfect fit.

Duff’s “Hero” is a motivational anthem with lyrics that evoke the image of a hero.

If you’re looking to support athletes, a song like this is highly recommended!

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Saitō Ayumu

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PARADISE WINDTerada Keiko

Paradise Wind / Keiko Terada

This is a rock number whose sense of speed and powerful vocals set listeners’ hearts ablaze.

Sung by Keiko Terada, the song was released as a single in July 1992 and became widely known as the theme for NHK’s broadcasts of the Barcelona Olympics.

Its lyrics, which celebrate the value of relentlessly pursuing one’s dreams and the courage to take on challenges, remain etched in many people’s memories along with the fervor of that unforgettable event.

Give it a listen when you’re facing a crucial moment or when you want to lift your spirits!