[Sports Day] Recommended songs for tug-of-war: powerful BGM that ignites your fighting spirit
When you hear “music for tug-of-war at a school sports day,” does any song come to mind?
You might easily imagine tracks for relays or sprints, but when it comes to tug-of-war, nothing quite clicks—that’s probably true for many people.
So in this article, we’ll introduce songs from a wide range of genres—popular J-pop, international pop, video game music, and more—that seem like a great match for tug-of-war.
From powerful, driving tunes to high-energy tracks that stoke your fighting spirit, we’ve gathered plenty of punchy songs.
Use this as a reference when choosing your BGM!
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[Sports Day] Recommended songs for tug-of-war: Powerful BGM that ignites your fighting spirit (41–50)
Kawasaki DriftBAD HOP
BAD HOP’s track “Kawasaki Drift” is a song defined by rap brimming with intense vibes.
The eight-member hip-hop group based in Kawasaki powerfully expresses their own experiences and ambitions.
The track is included on their mini-album “BAD HOP HOUSE,” released in June 2018, and is known as one of the group’s signature songs.
All members take part in a mic relay format, resulting in a piece where each individual’s personality shines.
Its powerful sound makes it a great choice to fire people up—even as background music for a tug-of-war at a school sports day.
Be sure to check it out.
Plan ADISH//
A high-energy, uplifting track has arrived! This rock number—said to be inspired by anime pacing and battle scenes—is packed with phrases themed around challenge and hard work.
Released in July 2024, the song has been making waves as the opening theme for the TV anime ‘The Elusive Samurai.’ Composed by all the members of DISH// with lyrics by Takumi Kitamura, it’s a piece that empowers listeners, making it a perfect choice for a tug-of-war at a school sports day—guaranteed to fire you up! It’s also an ideal track for anyone seeking the courage to face difficulties head-on.
nowHikakin & Seikin
The number-one dream job for elementary and middle schoolers: YouTuber.
This is “Ima” (Now), released in 2018, sung by the top YouTuber HIKAKIN and his older brother SEIKIN.
The lyrics and composition are by SEIKIN.
The song explores themes like time, history, the past and the future.
It’s catchy and you’ll find yourself humming along.
The tempo is just right—perfect for a tug-of-war at a school sports day.
APOLLO STYLEAPOLLO
APOLLO, who’s making waves in Japan’s reggae scene with a unique style that fuses reggae and hip-hop.
This release from the Osaka-born, Heisei-era artist is an energetic track grounded in electronic music and big beat.
Released in July 2016 by Kaerustudio Music, the song gained wide support in the club scene and at music festivals.
Packed with APOLLO’s rapid-fire delivery and powerful messages, the lyrics tell young people the importance of confidently forging their own path.
Use it as background music for a tug-of-war at a school sports day, and it’s sure to fire everyone up!
IllusionMY FIRST STORY × HYDE
The song created through the collaboration between MY FIRST STORY and HYDE is absolutely perfect for a tug-of-war at a school sports day.
Released in May 2024 as the opening theme for the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc, it features powerful vocals and an energetic sound that leave a strong impression.
The lyrics reflect the story’s tension and the characters’ growth, making it ideal for stoking fighting spirit.
The collaboration between MY FIRST STORY’s Hiro and HYDE has been highly praised by fans and generated a lot of buzz.
Play it during a tug-of-war, and it’s sure to fire up the participants and send the crowd’s excitement into overdrive.
Rhyme Wave Phrase DisciplesCHEHON
Known as one of CHEHON’s signature tracks, this piece stands out for its reggae heartbeat and adrenaline-charged message.
Released in 2009, it has been highly praised as a song that symbolizes the reggae scene from the 2000s onward.
CHEHON is said to express the shock and impact of discovering reggae through this track.
The song gained renewed attention with a stunning performance on THE FIRST TAKE, becoming a massive hit that surpassed 10 million views.
It’s perfect for boosting motivation with fiery vibes—and it’s even recommended for rallying your team’s spirit during a tug-of-war at a school sports day!
The Greatest ShowHugh Jackman, Keala Settle, Zac Efron, Zendaya & The Greatest Showman Ensemble
This song is the theme of the musical film The Greatest Showman.
Even if you haven’t seen the movie, haven’t you heard it often on TV and elsewhere? The opening shouts and stomp-like sounds, the way the excitement builds—it’s great, isn’t it? The marching performance used by Osaka Toin at the National High School Baseball Invitational is famous too.
With its powerful sound, shouts, and distinctive sound effects, it’s weighty and makes you feel strength welling up from your core—perfect BGM for tug-of-war.