Happy National Running Day!

It's National Running Day. There's no better time to discuss awesome metal tunes for running. I've found that classic thrash and metalcore work best for me. When it comes to hill training I need something really aggressive... when I'm doing a long run I need something that will distract me. I quite enjoy running and the sense of accomplishment when I'm done. That said, I'm not good at the sport: I'm slow. I'm determined, I prod along. I work hard. I remain slow. I've decided to come to peace with that and just embrace my abilities. It's okay to be a back of the pack runner. I do races, put on my metal and mind my own business. Some of the songs I listen to the most when running are Motley Crue's "Wild Side," Asking Alexandria's "The Final Episode" and especially I See Stars' "Electric Forrest."

What tunes do you love for running... or exercise in general?

Oh, and here's a video for National Running Day. Bret Michaels even found his way into a running promo!

If you're a runner -- the Rock n' Roll Marathon Series is running a $20 discount today. Might be worth your time to register today if there is a race near you.

Comments

[Bryon]

I like anything with a high BPM when I'm jogging, so I prefer a thrashy/punky/hardcore playlist. It doesn't matter how tired I am - when Hatebreed or Pantera comes on, I get an instant adrenaline boost. My list also includes a few old glam/metal gems like Slave to the Grind, Riot Act, and Kickstart my Heart.

[NC Rocker]

Thanks for the tip on the discount. I was already contemplating running the Savannah race.....I may go ahead and sign up.

As for my favorite running songs.....Keep on Running (Y&T); Kickstart my Heart, Hold on by Triumph....don't know why, but that one always juices me. But my absolute favorite is Lay it Down.....especially when I really want to Lay it Down!!

[bkallday]

Nothing you listed is thrash or metalcore but keep up the good work! Running does a body good.

[EddieLongHair]

Funny, just before I read this I was contemplating what I would listen to when I get home from work and go for a run. I think I'm gonna go with Five Finger Death Punch today! Of course one of my faves for running is AFD, but I could listen to that ANYTIME. I have a pretty cool Crue playlist that also does the job pretty well.

[Bob]

Ally, my wife is a distance walker -- mostly half marathons, but also a few full marathons. She, too is slow, and often finishes these races last, or close to last. what I always remind her is, "the people who finished last are the people who sat on their couch and did nothing while you walked a marathon." Ally, please don't ever put yourself down for being slow. You're out there getting exercise, and that's way more than 1/3 of the people in this country can say.

I was one of those people who sat on my a** while my wife was out kicking a**. finally, thanks to her inspiration, I started walking with her about a year ago. I've lost 25 pounds so far, and am now off blood pressure meds.

Anyway, in terms of music, for me, when I'm exercising, it's all about Motorhead!!!

[dj]

when im at the gym or when i am hiking i just usually play pantera it keeps it going, motivates me or whatever. yeah i agree with bob dont put yourself down allyson when your at least getting exersize, whatever works for you works.

[Smknotsmf]

Warrior's Call by Volbeat and Jason McMasters cover of Def Lep's Let it Go and almost all Rob zombie related music

[Metalboy!]

Bob! Great news! I'm right the with ya! I lost 30 lbs. since New Years Day and I've also managed to keep it off, too, like yourself. Congrats, Bob. You're an inspiration. \m/

[Carolyne]

I've been running since my teens (almost 30 years now) and it is one of my passions. Glam and metal have played a huge part in contributing to that passion. I definitely don't enjoy my runs in the same way when the music isn't there. I agree with Bryon, NC Rocker and EddieLongHair, there is something about Mötley Crüe and running.....it's a beautiful thing.

Listening to music while running has evolved over the years. With my first Sony Walkman (that headset was the best!) I played 30 minutes cassette tapes and when I discovered 60 minutes tapes, I was giddy! When the auto reverse feature came out, I was thrilled! Then came the tune belt and I was in heaven! No more holding the Walkman or having the weight of it pull your track pants down. The Discman was a disappointment since it skipped a lot. That brings us to present day and the iPod. You can't beat the convenience of having access to thousands of songs and playing them in the order you desire (remember it took 5 minutes to fast forward to Ain't Talkin' Bout Love) but the quality of the sound isn't there anymore. I've gotten used to it but it still bugs me from time to time when I know I'm missing some great bass. I think I subconsciously hear it in my head anyway. Over all, you can't beat the iPod for sheer quantity and I love the fact that my track pants don't fall down anymore.