Music is an extremely powerful device. Its wonders of changing mood, generating thought and fostering physical state make it a tool unlike any other.
Since it is so powerful, it can be used in nearly any situation. From social gatherings to relaxing in solitude, enjoying the highest of highs or fighting the lowest of lows, music always find its way into our lives.
An area in which music plays an interesting role is the wide world of sports. Sometimes a tasty tune is all it takes to capitalize on a workout, motivate one to reach goals and concentrate on achieving that desirable piece of the prize.
Due to the diverse nature of athletes and sports altogether, music can be drastically different and used in polar opposite situations. One sport that is notable for being enhanced by music is running.
London's Brunel University found in a 2008 study that "carefully selected music can significantly increase a person's physical endurance and make exercise a more positive experience."
This came after participants listened to Madonna, the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Queen during a 30-minute run on a treadmill.
This is no different for many runners at DePauw. Freshman Will Bond, who runs both cross country and track, notes music as a soothing helper used to loosen up for an event.
"As a distance runner, I like to stay relatively relaxed," said Bond, who listed Coldplay and Bon Iver as particular artists he listens to before racing. "When I prepare for a race I listen to music that won't over-excite me into running too quickly at the beginning of the race."
This trend remains the same for freshman golfer Stephanie Aanenson. For her, being calm is crucial to her success on the green.
"I listen to mainly chill rap like Atmosphere or something that relaxes me, but also gets my mind in the game," Aanenson said.
Getting to the rate of performance an athlete strives to achieve sometimes takes a little more than physical effort. An emotionally strong and high-energy song can get an athlete in gear to perform at an elevated level. To be frank, athletes need to get pumped up.
Freshman baseball player Matt Dorsett achieves at his highest level by listening to "For You" by Keith Urban. A country song symbolizing patriotism that is featured in the movie "Act of Valor" about U.S. Navy SEALS, Dorsett claims it helps him feel a sense of pride and service.
"I feel like I owe it to myself and other people to do my best because other people are out there risking their lives for me," Dorsett said. "It pumps me up for games and makes me proud to be an American."
Particular songs or artists aren't always a go-to. A random assortment of songs or artists can do the trick without routine. No matter who it is or what is playing, a euphoric combination of both excitement and happiness help some prepare themselves to achieve greatness.
"I usually listen to music before races, but nothing in particular, just something that cheers me up and excites me," said sophomore swimmer Matt Gleason, a national qualifier in five events. "For me, artists range from Skrillex to Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, and Kanye West to Rebelution."
Regardless of who it is or what is being played, music can affect an athlete in an infinite number of ways. While either being a crucial catalyst to get to a high level of intensity, or a relaxing tune to wind down into the zone, music can be a huge help in an athlete's pursuit of perfection.
— Easterhouse is a freshman from Evergreen Park, Ill., majoring in communications. features@thedepauw.com