Descriptive analysis of university-student music preferences during different forms of physical activity

Abstract

Music can be used to enhance the pleasure derived from physical activity experiences through the selection of songs for each type and intensity of activity, which in turn can reduce negative physiological responses and improve adherence. Third- and fourth-year kinesiology undergraduate students completed a music questionnaire (N = 113, 63 females). Questions pertaining to whether the individual uses music while participating in exercise and/or leisure activities were asked, in addition to specifics on the purpose of listening to music and their demographic information. The data showed significant individual differences in regard to music preferences for each type of activity. Participants preferred music with a fast tempo for aerobic exercise, slow tempo for strength-training exercise, and slow tempo often in a major mode for leisure type activities. Sex differences were minimal. The results reinforce the idea that individual differences in music choices is an important concept for practitioners and researchers to consider in their future work.