Effects of Vocal and Instrumental Music on Running

Abstract

This study tested the effects of listening to fast vocal music, fast instrumental music, and no music on nine runners’ distance, average speed, average and maximum heart rate, stride length, and perceived exertion. The data collected during this study revealed music had an effect on maximum heart rate, perceived body tiredness, and perceived mood. This study supports the following conclusions: (1) to lower one’s maximum heart rate, one should listen to instrumental music rather than vocal music; and (2) to reduce the feeling of tiredness while running, one should listen to instrumental music rather than no music. The study also demonstrated that listening to vocal music rather than instrumental music improved runners’ moods. Further research should be conducted to investigate other factors and trends and their potential application to running performance.