Top nine rock songs to listen to while working out

Phil Rudd, Bon Scott, Mark Evans, Angus Young, and Malcolm Young (AC/DC)
Phil Rudd, Bon Scott, Mark Evans, Angus Young, and Malcolm Young (AC/DC) | Michael Putland/GettyImages

Are you ready to transform your workout routine into an epic, high-energy experience? Look no further! Whether you're hitting the treadmill, lifting weights, or powering through a HIIT session, the right music can make all the difference, and nothing gets the adrenaline pumping quite like rock music.

With its pulsating rhythms, powerful vocals, and electrifying guitar solos, rock music is the perfect companion for any fitness routine. In this article, we've curated a list of nine top rock songs to listen to while working out. These tracks are guaranteed to keep your energy soaring and your motivation sky-high as you crush your fitness goals.

"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor

Do you need motivation while working out? "Eye of the Tiger" should be on your playlist. With its powerful, fast-paced rhythm and inspirational lyrics, this song gives you an extra surge of energy to keep going when fatigue sets in.

It was released as a single from Survivor's third album of the same name, which was released in 1982. It was also the iconic theme song for the sports drama film Rocky III. Considered one of Survivor's most well-known songs, its lyrics focus on perseverance, resilience, and conquering obstacles. Overall, it's a timeless workout anthem for motivation.

"Thunderstruck" by AC/DC

"Thunderstruck" is another high-energy rock song that will keep your focus sharp during a workout session. The song boasts a strong, energetic rhythm, and unforgettable and electrifying guitar solos, making it a great fit for any physical activity.

Released as the lead single from AC/DC's twelfth studio album The Razors Edge (1990), "Thunderstruck is one of the band's most popular tracks. It'll keep your adrenaline high, making it the perfect track to stay focused and push your limits during any workout.

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana

If you're powering through an intense workout sesh, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana should be one of the the songs you're listening to. With its explosive guitar riffs, fast tempo, and intense energy, you'll be given the push you need to perform at your best. It was the lead single from Nirvana's second album, Nevermind (1991), and it helped solidify the band's status as one of the most influential bands in rock history.

"Enter Sandman" by Metallica

If you're at the point in your workout session where you're in need of an energy boost, turn on "Enter Sandman" by Metallica, and you'll be back in the zone. The fast pace of the song and its powerful guitar riffs will keep you engaged and help you push through tough sets or sprints.

"Enter Sandman" is the lead single from Metallica's self-titled fifth studio album, released in 1991. It's one of their most commercially successful songs and helped break them into mainstream popularity.

"Highway to Hell" by AC/DC

You just had to know I was going to include another iconic rock song from AC/DC. This beloved hard rock band has several tracks that are a great match for anyone looking to stay motivated and energized during a workout. "Highway to Hell" is one of those songs, and it will keep you fired up and ready to take on any challenge during your exercise session. It's the opening song of AC/DC's sixth studio album, Highway to Hell (1979).

"All My Life" by Foo Fighters

"All My Life" is another great rock song that will boost your mood and energy as you power through your workout routine. Its high-energy pace and catchy melody will keep you moving and ensure you stay focused and pumped from start to finish. The track was released as the first single from Foo Fighters' fourth studio album, One by One (2002).

“The Final Countdown” by Europe

Let's say you need the motivation to want to work out. Well, "The Final Countdown" by Europe will give you just that. Its powerful, dramatic intro will immediately grab your attention and help you mentally prepare to tackle your workout. Then, with the song's energetic sound, upbeat tempo, and motivational lyrics, it'll keep you engaged and fired up throughout your entire workout routine. In my opinion, this track should be on everyone's workout playlist.

"The Final Countdown" was released as the lead single from Europe's third studio album of the same name (1986) and became their most successful song.

These other two rock songs will take your workout to the next level:

  • "Break Stuff" by Limp Bizkit
  • "Numb" by Linkin Park