94% Say Music Matters: The Workout Anthems That Ruled 2024
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
In 2024, Coi Leray’s “Players” didn’t just top the charts—it became the undisputed anthem of fitness enthusiasts worldwide, dominating playlists across fitness apps. Feed.fm’s newly released 2024 Wellness & Workout Music Report reveals how music continues to drive engagement, with curated playlists transforming workouts into memorable, motivating experiences. For fitness businesses, the data offers insights into why soundtracks are no longer just an afterthought—they’re a key ingredient for user retention and satisfaction.
According to the report, 94% of users say music is essential for workout motivation, with 83% preferring a mix of familiar hits and fresh tracks to stay engaged. Recognizable songs also pack an emotional punch, with 77% of users agreeing that hearing familiar tunes enhances their overall experience. For fitness brands, this translates into a clear message: music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a business strategy.
Pop maintained its throne this year, with artists like Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift, and Dua Lipa providing the mid-tempo, feel-good beats that work across a range of modalities. Eight out of the top ten most-streamed tracks featured female artists, showcasing their dominance in crafting music that keeps members moving. Miley Cyrus’s “Flowers” and Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” weren’t just radio hits—they were the perfect accompaniments for everything from spin classes to strength training sessions.
But 2024 wasn’t all about pop. Rock made an unexpected climb to the number two genre spot, marking a two-place jump from last year. Nostalgia played a big role here, with classics from Green Day, Heart, and My Chemical Romance making waves alongside new rock bands like Spiritbox and Turnstile. Even pop favorites like Olivia Rodrigo infused guitar-driven sounds into hits like “vampire” and “bad idea right?,” blending genres and appealing to a broad audience. Fitness trainers leaned into this trend with themed playlists like “2000s Pop Punk” and “She Rocks,” bringing energy and variety to classes.
Nostalgia wasn’t limited to rock, though. Coi Leray’s “Players,” which samples an iconic hip-hop track, exemplified a growing demand for music that feels both familiar and fresh. This mirrors data showing that 83% of users prefer playlists that blend recognizable hits with new sounds—a strategy that keeps workouts engaging and prevents monotony.
Country music also gained traction in fitness playlists this year, with cross-genre collaborations like Beyoncé’s foray into the genre sparking interest. While it didn’t crack the top five genres, its steady rise hints at its growing appeal in boutique studios and outdoor fitness events.
Fitness instructors added their voices to the report, emphasizing the importance of variety and energy in their mixes. Rising stars like Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan injected fresh energy into playlists, while 2000s throwbacks like Usher’s “Yeah!,” Britney Spears’ “Toxic,” and Avril Lavigne’s “Sk8er Boi” fueled nostalgia-driven workouts. Instructors also highlighted the enduring power of rock classics and the emotional lift provided by familiar anthems.
For fitness brands, these trends are more than just interesting insights—they’re actionable data points. Curated playlists that capture cultural moments and reflect user preferences can differentiate a brand in an increasingly competitive market. As Lauren Pufpaf, President and COO of Feed.fm, notes, “Music fuels motivation in the moment and keeps members coming back for more.”
The numbers back this up. Playlists with a mix of familiar and fresh tracks can enhance user satisfaction, increasing the likelihood of member retention. As fitness businesses continue to prioritize personalized experiences, the role of music in creating meaningful connections with users will only grow.
So, what does this mean for fitness operators? It’s time to think of music as more than background noise. Whether it’s the motivating beats of Coi Leray, the raw energy of Olivia Rodrigo, or the nostalgic pull of Green Day, the right soundtrack can be the difference between a one-time visitor and a lifelong member. For those looking to make an impact in 2025, the message is clear: crank up the volume and let the music do the heavy lifting.
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