If you play guitar and frequent a local gym, you've probably noticed that a lot of what you can faintly hear coming from other people’s ear buds, isn't that good ol’ rock and roll.
Hip-hop and aggressive rap, for whatever reason, is the music of choice for most gym goers. For the guitar players who like to stay in shape, that kind of music probably isn’t our preferred motivator.
Typically we are more interested in music that is driven by our instrument, therefore would rather work out with a playlist that is heavy on guitar, as opposed to an electric drum set. That’s not to say there’s anything wrong with rap or hip-hop, as it’s all just a matter of preference.
Yet for those who prefer driving rock music to go along with their workout, here’s a list of 10 songs that are ideal for the guitarist who also happens to be a seasoned veteran of their local health club.
1. ACDC: Rock and Roll Train – You could probably have every track ACDC has ever written on this list, but Rock and Roll Train in particular is a great upbeat song for a workout.
2. A Perfect Circle: The Outsider Remix – This song is recognizable mostly because of its association with the Resident Evil movie series. It’s far more aggressive and driving than the original Outsider track, and still heavy on the guitar work.
3. Tool: The Pot – The Pot is an aggressive and rhythmic political rant with an addictive cadence and tight, complimentary guitar playing. This one keeps you going from start to finish.
4. Godsmack: Rocky Mountain Way – A cover of the original Joe Walsh song, Godsmack’s version of Rocky Mountain Way is loud, powerful and smooth on its delivery. It’s “better than the way we had.”
5. Audioslave: Hypnotize – Hypnotize is a deep track from Audioslave’s first album and never got any significant airplay or notoriety. Even still, it’s an energetic up tempo song that will remind you of racing music, yet with plenty of guitar to spare.
6. Nappy Roots: AwwNaww (featuring Marcos Curiel from P.O.D.) – I know I said no rap, but this is hardly your typical rap song. Having Marcos Curiel’s guitar work on the track makes this an incredible rap-rock mix and leans heavily to the rock side of the fence. You’ll find plenty of guitar here to keep you going.
7. Nickelback: Follow You Home – There almost seems to be two different versions of Nickelback: There’s the one that reminds us of Metallica, then there’s the one that reminds us more of Savage Garden. This song definitely stems from the former, being loaded with loud and powerful guitar work to go along with a rhythm that keeps you engaged throughout. It’s ideal for heavy lifting or running.
8. Pillar: Shine (Collective Soul Cover) – Pillar isn’t as widely known but their cover of Collective Soul’s “Shine” is worth checking out. It’s a far heavier version of the original song and a bit faster as well. The nice balance of speed and power will keep you motivated.\
9. Linkin Park: With You – It’s old school, but it’s still one of Linkin Park’s most aggressive songs. If you’re not into Mike Shinoda’s rap-rock deal with Jay-Z, this song is nice alternative and a great one to keep in your workout playlist.
10. A Perfect Circle: Counting Bodies like Sheep – This song is slow, but it’s still incredibly powerful, both in terms of lyrics and rhythm. The drive of the song is more than enough to keep you going, even though there isn’t a great deal of guitar involved.
Arica Wright is a professional blogger that enjoys providing consumers with heath and fitness advice. She writes for Fitness 19 Gyms, a leading health club franchise.
