The music I play for cardio is definitely not the same music I play for weightlifting. In general, I listen to EDM for cardio, and depending on the type of cardio I do I break EDM further down into subgenres. I have listened to all kinds of music while weightlifting, but there is only one that pushes my muscles to the limit.
Heavy rock and metal is what directs my muscles to crank out extra reps and climb to new levels with that weight pin. It’s the kind of music that brings out the little beast in me. I know that heavy metal is not for everyone, but if there is a time and place for everything, then the gym is the perfect time and place for it.
Heavy metal can be associated with rage, darkness, and diabolic messages. This is why I have two separate metal playlists for lifting. When I’m spiritually strong and insensitive to lyrics (meaning I only care about the music itself), I have no problem listening to “Lift Like A Beast.” However, if I’m feeling sensitive, anxious, in need of light or just in need of a change then I will listen to the Christian rock playlist “Rock Against Enemy Attack.”
“Lift Like A Beast” playlist does actually contain faith filled songs, but this is a compilation of all-time favorite modern rock heard on the radio without regard for what the lyrics actually mean. I balanced some of the testosterone by adding a few tracks featuring Lisa Papineau and Lacey Sturm on vocals. “Lift Like A Beast” gives me the juice I need to hit my goals, but “Rock Against Enemy Attack” is the one that I go to particularly if I’m feeling spiritually weak, sensitive, or battling some negative emotions.
Make no mistake, the Christian bands rock just as hard if not harder. The difference is that your mind can take a break from battling vengeful messages while listening to “Rock Against Enemy Attack.” A few years ago, my husband and I went to a Skillet and Disciple show. It was one of the loudest concerts I have ever been to. My other favorite Christian band is Decyfer Down. I really love “Fading.” Without a doubt, these bands rock. There is so much passion and talent. It is evident that these musicians really do live, breathe, and perform in faith. I am truly thankful to these artists for giving us positive songs that rock.
