Some call the 90s the last great music era of all time, and there’s a good argument for it. From grunge to hip-hop, alternative rock to pop, the 90s gave us some of the best music that is still played on max volume today. Unlike many other music eras, there is still a huge demand for the great bands from the 90s. You only need to go to a Metallica, Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, or Alanis Morisette concert to see not only how packed they are, but how those attending are completely rocking out.
If you’re from Gen Y, otherwise known as a millennial, you may have cut your long hair and taken out the lip ring by now, but you’ll most likely still prick up your ears every time a song from the 90s comes on. If you’re a runner, you’ll also understand what we mean when we say the right 90s song can take you from struggling at the back of the pack to powering ahead.
Today’s post is dedicated to the Gen Y music-lovers, where we reminisce about this great music era and share our power 90s playlist to give you some inspiration on your next run. If you’re running in your 30s, this is for you.
The Power of Music on Performance
Before we share our Gen Y playlist, let’s take a quick look at some of the science that explains why and how music can make such an impact while we are training or competing.
According to the Natural Institute of Health, listening to music has time and time again shown to have ergogenic benefits during various types of exercise. This includes endurance, sprint, and resistance-based activities. The Sport Journal shares this view. Their research shows that music can influence preparation and competitive performances. They state that there is a direct link between music and dissociation, arousal regulation, acquisition of motor skills, synchronization, and attainment of flow.
So, with the science saying it’s so, if you opt to run in silence perhaps it’s time to put those earphone in.
If it’s music from the 90s that gets you going, here are a few songs to add to your training playlist.
The Perfect Gen Y Playlist
This playlist is dedicated to all the Gen Y runners out there, ready to hit their stride. Whether you are looking for something chill to get you in the zone, or something a bit more upbeat as you battle the hills, there’s a song for everyone here.
- “Bitter Sweet Symphony” – The Verve (1997)
You all remember this one. With its sweeping orchestral intro, this track is great for setting the pace. Its driving rhythm and introspective lyrics are perfect for finding your stride. - “Ray of Light” – Madonna (1998)
What would the 90s be without Madonna? This high-energy, electronic beat will keep you motivated. It’s vibrant and powerful, which will really get that heart rate up as you start to pick up the pace. - “Around the World” – Daft Punk (1997)
This is a great tune if you are doing track training, considering the words of the song. Daft Punk’s repetitive, infectious beats are great for a steady pace, whether it be fast or slow. - “Semi-Charmed Life” – Third Eye Blind (1997)
This is a great song for when you are looking to settle into a good stride and keep yourself upbeat. This alternative rock song brings a dose of feel-good nostalgia, making it a great tune for pushing through the middle of your run. - “Hypnotize” – The Notorious B.I.G. (1997)
Hip-hop lovers will appreciate this iconic Biggie track. The catchy beats and flow give you the swagger to keep pushing forward. - “Tubthumping” – Chumbawamba (1997)
Save this for those dark moments! “I get knocked down, but I get up again” is a runner’s mantra in song form. It’s fun, upbeat, and keeps you going when the miles get tough. - “Everlong” – Foo Fighters (1997)
With its driving guitar and powerful beat, “Everlong” is perfect for moments when you need to dig deep. The raw energy in this track helps you push through any mid-run fatigue. - “Doo Wop (That Thing)” – Lauryn Hill (1998)
This is an empowering hip hop anthem that brings a steady beat and cool flow, perfect for a slower pace or cooling down after a long run. - “Spice Up Your Life” – Spice Girls (1997)
Aah, the Spice Girls. Sometimes, you just need a fun, catchy song to keep things light. This pop hit from the Spice Girls is the perfect way to inject some joy into your run. - “My Own Worst Enemy” – Lit (1999)
This is another great tune to lift you up when things get tough, or for the time you need to shoot ahead. This punk-pop song brings raw energy and a fast tempo, making it great for sprints or the final push to the finish line. - “Fuel” – Metallica (1997)
While Metallica has plenty of hits that could make this list, “Fuel’ is here because of its fast tempo and fierce guitar riffs that’ll keep you fired up. It’s a great tune for an adrenaline boost, especially during high-intensity sprints. - “Do the Evolution” – Pearl Jam (1998)
Pearl Jam is one of the most iconic bands of the 90s, and they’re still going strong touring the world. We’ve added “Do the Evolution” for its energy and rawness, with a relentless beat that’s perfect for keeping a strong pace. If you aren’t going to do it for yourself, do it for Eddie!
If you’re a millennial, add these hits from the 90s to your running playlist to power through your next run and set that PB.
Let Fixx Nutrition Give You the Edge
If you’re running in your 30s, every element counts in building and improving your performance. When it comes to pushing through physical barriers, nutrition is just as important as music. That’s where Fixx Nutrition comes in. Our range of high-quality products are each designed to help athletes of all ages keep performing at their best, whether during training or on race day. Our specially formulated CrampFix, for example, is designed to prevent cramping on a run, helping you get more out of each stride. Fuel X, on the other hand, is packed with the nutrients and electrolytes you need when you have to dig deep.
If you’re looking to maximize your performance on your next run, add Fixx Nutrition products to your nutrition. You can view our range of high-quality sports nutrition products on our website.
Fixx Nutrition’s products have become a runner’s best friend, with trusted, quality nutrition to fuel your endurance journey, whatever it may be. So, as you build the perfect playlist filled with running music for millennials, don’t forget to stock up on Fixx Nutrition products and keep the momentum strong. With the right music and nutrition, every run can feel like a victory.
