If you’re like me, you’ve got a geek workout playlist filled to the brim with epic geek-type music. Shoot to Thrill is probably on there, maybe Mr. Blue Sky, the Imperial March, Duel of the Fates, or the Rocky theme…
I could go on.
But I won’t. Your time is precious so let’s do this.
Whether I’m using my geek workout playlist to imagine that I’m running away from zombies or lifting that car off a stroller (rather, that however many pound kettlebell staring at me), regardless of the kind of workout I’m doing, nothing quite gets my blood pumping more than a fantastic soundtrack.
So, here’s a few unique and sometimes quirky tracks that are sure to make a great addition to any geek playlist (workout optional)
10. Aliens: Combat Drop
Even if you enjoy working out, it’s usually once you’re done right? There’s an element of going into battle, giving it your best, getting off your ass, pushing past resistance, pumping yourself up, or psyching yourself out. No matter how you spin it, this track by James Horner is sure to get you geared up for taking action!
9. Attack on Titan: Rittaikidou
This was a tough one because honestly, a good chunk of the Attack on Titan score by Hiroyuki Sawano is a blood-pumping feast. I love this track because it has a steady beat, builds, and feels incredibly epic. You just have to remind yourself there isn’t a Titan chasing you.
8. The Princess Bride: The Swordfight
Arguably one of the most iconic sword fights in movie history, Mark Knopfler‘s score for Princess Bride brings two words to mind: epic and whimsical. Workouts aren’t just about cardio, they can also be about precision, dedication, challenging yourself, and most importantly honoring your abilities. What better track to provide you with all of these reminders as the sword fight between two masters, who above all, honor each other.
7. Batman: The Animated Series Theme
I’m a product of the 90s what can I say? I mean, come on it’s Danny Elfman AND Batman, nuff said.
6. Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood: The Brotherhood Escapes
I had to have at least one epic choral piece here…no Star Wars Phantom Menace Duel of the Fates, cos I figured you already had that…Jesper Kyd is an incredibly prolific game score composer. The Assassin’s Creed series aside he’s also composed the Borderlands and Hitman series, among many others. Seriously, even if you don’t do the gaming thing, check out his work.
5. Vikings: Battle for the Hill of the Ash
There are a lot of epic tracks throughout Trevor Morris‘ score but this one always manages to remain one of my favs. Hailing from season 3, the battle between Vikings and Mercians, it transports you right back to the sounds of clashing metal, battle cries, and smoky eyeliner.
A brief shoutout: if you enjoy the music from Vikings, you’d potentially enjoy anything by Einar Selvik. He’s a Norwegian multi-instrumentalist who has a rather lengthy list of associated acts he’s created/worked with over his career. Einar contributed a great deal to the show, Vikings, and even made a cameo appearance. A nod to #6 above, Einar also collaborated on Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla.
4. The Truth and the Light: Music from the X-Files: Insequi
I had to add something from The X-Files. Mark Snow‘s unique sound always takes me right back to hiding under the covers, glued to my small 13in brick of a TV I had in my room as a kid, to watch the next adventure of Mulder and Scully. Whether you’re running away from the little green men or chasing them, this track makes for a great HITT opportunity.
3. Inception: Mombassa
This list wouldn’t be complete without Hans Zimmer. Known for his iconic sweeping soundscapes of epic proportions, his work just makes you wanna be productive, regardless of what you’re doing. I love this track because it’s got a steady beat that builds and just makes ya wanna parkour all over the place!
2. The Expanse: Hammerlock
SPACE!!! Who says you can’t build up a sweat in space? The Expanse score offers a unique melody for each of the factions of Earth, Mars, and Belters, weaving them together to create a complex universe of sound. Clinton Shorter, who also did District 9, sends us to a place of wonder, possibilities, and ultimately: hope when times (or the workout) seem unrelentingly difficult. Oh, and this track is from season 3, btw.
1. Star Wars Return of the Jedi: Ewok Celebration
Did you really think I would forget John Williams? I don’t think that’s even possible. What to say about John Williams…where does one even start? We’ll just say he’s one of the greatest film composers of all time and even if you don’t know him, chances are you know his music. That work? Right, we’ll go with that. The Ewok celebration from Return of the Jedi I find to be a fantastic cool-down/yay you did it song. I mean, you just completed a workout, that’s not something to be sniffed at. Time to celebrate!