A gym scene requires a playlist that sets the scene. Rocky had its iconic stair scene, which would just involve a guy running up a set of stairs without the motivational music. Music sets the mood for anything: gym-goers deserve good music to accompany them on their transformative journey. Interrobang curated a small collection based on a few popular genres of music.

Rock

Nothing can stop you when you’re listening to AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell” or “You Shook Me All Night Long”. They are good songs to ramp up the speed on a treadmill or elliptical and work up a sweat. Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up” was featured in the 2012 Omega Olympic campaign with athletes preparing for their big moment, which is only fitting for the body transformation that listeners are about to go through. Capping off a grueling workout is Queen’s “We Are The Champions” or “Another One Bites The Dust” that instantly makes you feel good about yourself.

Pop

Previous One Direction member, Liam Payne encourages listeners to do what makes them feel good even if it involves dramatic change on “Strip That Down”. Taylor Swift’s “Shake it Off” is a song that promotes a positive mindset in adverse situations with its lyrics and a catchy and uplifting chorus. If you’re feeling down about your body, Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass” is about embracing all body shape, no matter what size whereas “No” makes listeners feel good about themselves because they are “untouchable” and “beautiful”. To finish off a grueling workout, Jessie J, Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj’s collaboration in “Bang Bang” can help finish off the final stretch because nothing says empowering like three women belting out a power pop anthem.

Throwbacks

Tony Basil’s “Mickey” is an iconic pop song with catchy lyrics like “You’re so fine you blow my mind”, which is fantastic to hear when you’re working towards a year-round beach bod. If you’re feeling a little insecure, Joe Esposito will dig you out of your rut with “You’re the Best”. Not only does it have lyrics to hype listeners up such as “You’re the best… You gotta be proud”, but it was also part of the Karate Kid soundtrack. Have a redemption moment lifting weights or working up a sweat during cardio with Survivor’s “Eye Of The Tiger”, the Rocky III song that everyone remembers the movie by.