The idea that music has an impact on lifting is not as bizarre as it sounds. People often use music to describe the mood they are feeling, so it would make sense that music also applies to our moods when lifting. Students were asked how frequently they lift and whether to listen to music or not.

“I try to lift four to six days a week and I listen to music when I lift, I like to listen to a little bit of everything,” said junior Frankie Raguaskis.

“I lift twice a week and I listen to rap every time I lift,” said Danny Serwa.

“I lift six days a week and rest on Saturday, I like to listen to rock each time I lift,” said Tommy Westerkamp.

A pattern becomes very clear when students were asked about their frequency in lifting and whether they listen to music or not. Whether it is done on purpose or subconsciously, it is a commonality between students to listen to at least one genre of music. The genre of music may vary between students, but the results are all the same. The impact of music on lifting is very individual, but when asked if students believed they could perform at the same level without music they responded negatively. 

“No, I need to listen to Lady Gaga while I’m working out,” said junior Anthony Roman.

“I’d say no, because the music gets the vibes going and also loosens you up during your lift, but like without the music it’s just stale and quiet,” said senior Jillian Bollard.

Students value the boost of energy they get from listening to their favorite genres of music so much so that they do not believe they can perform at the same level they perform at with music. Lifting is not only about being strong, the amped up behavior that music generates a lot of strength for students. So the next time you are getting ready to hit a PR, make sure to have your favorite song playing as it might be the deciding factor between an overwhelming success or a crushing failure.