Best Podcasts for Working Out

The gym is actually one of the best places to listen to podcasts that require a bit of concentration — true crime, interview-style, and self-improvement shows all work well because they keep your mind occupied while your body does the work. High-energy content helps maintain intensity during harder sets.

It depends on the workout. For steady-state cardio like running or cycling, many people prefer podcasts because the story keeps them going longer than they'd otherwise manage. For interval training or heavy lifting where you need a rhythm, music often wins. Many gym-goers switch between both.

Runners tend to favour true crime and comedy podcasts because they distract from fatigue during long runs. Self-improvement and sports podcasts are popular for shorter, more intense runs where motivation is the goal. The top-ranked shows above have all been validated by athletes and casual exercisers alike.