10 Best Heavy Metal Workout Songs
Mastodon makes Audio Ink Radio’s list of the best heavy metal workout songs – Story by Anne Erickson, photo by Clay McBride
Audio Ink Radio presents its list of the best heavy metal workout songs
Those serious about working out know that listening to good music always helps. Of course, the faster and more high-octane the song, the better chance that it will get the heart pumping. As it turns out, plenty of metal songs have the high BPM (beats per minute) and powerful, gutting rhythms that can fuel a successful workout. So, what are the best heavy metal workout songs?
When it comes to the subgenres of metal, thrash is really a perfect choice for a workout. The genre’s super-fast riffing should awaken the warrior in almost anyone. But, some of the other metal subgenres shine, too. So, grab your headphones, put on your workout gear and read on for Audio Ink Radio’s best heavy metal workout songs. Get in touch with us and send you picks via social media.
10. Three Inches of Blood, “Battles and Brotherhood” (2009)
Those unfamiliar with the former Canadian heavy metal band are missing out when it comes to workout jams. Start with “Battles and Brotherhood,” off 2009’s “Here Waits Thy Doom.” The song features raging metal riffs and powerful vocals. It’s almost purpose-made for a metal workout mix.
9. Pantera, “Walk” (1992)
With its pulsating beat and repetitive riffing, Pantera’s “Walk” is a steady, chugging metal anthem that’s reliable in the midst of a sweat session. It’s also a recognizable tune, offering a comforting jam that will keep any metalhead entertained. “Walk” is simply a solid choice for a workout.
8. Bullet for My Valentine, “The Last Fight” (2010)
Bullet for My Valentine fall in the category of what we would consider a newer generation of heavy metal, but that doesn’t mean they’re tame. The band is known for its chugging, fast-paced riffing, and that’s exactly what works for a solid workout. While plenty of their guitar-driven tracks work. “The Last Fight” off 2021’s “Fever” is a choice pick.
7. Hatebreed, “Tear It Down” (2003)
Hatebreed have a cutting hardcore sound that makes the listener want to get all kinds of angsty. That’s a good thing for those moments during a workout when it seems like the blood, sweat and tears just won’t end. Specifically, “I Will Be Heard” is a choice pick for any workout playlist. From the moment Jamey Jasta exclaims, “Now is the time to rise to my feet,” this song delivers a wild, heavy and chugging sound that gets the listener amped up.
6. Megadeth, “Symphony of Destruction” (1992)
Megadeth’s “Symphony of Destruction,” off their landmark 1992 release “Countdown to Extinction,” is a metal anthem that leaves no stone unturned. Those looking for motivation to get off the couch and pump some iron needn’t look further than “Symphony of Destruction,” which features some of the best thrash ever from Dave Mustaine and company.
5. Anthrax, “Caught in a Mosh” (1987)
Being a thrash metal band, Anthrax have plenty of workout gems. They’ve always been one of the less melodic thrash choices, too, which also makes their music good for a workout. “Caught in a Mosh” off 2016’s “Among the Living,” is written for the mosh pit, but it could also have been penned for a serious workout. With lightning-fast riffing and gutting rhythms, put this one on that workout mix twice.
4. Iron Maiden, “Run to the Hills” (1982)
With a name like “Run to the Hills,” how could this Iron Maiden track not be a great pick for a runner? This song is a welcome addition to any workout playlist, even though it’s not quite as fast-paced as some of the other choices on this list. It’s got a raw bite, too, that makes it a deep listen.
3. Slayer, “Raining Blood” (1986)
Head to any gym, and chances are, more than a few peeps will be cranking the Slayer classic “Raining Blood.” This thrash nugget is a favorite at the gym, thanks to its fast pace and thunderous beat. Moreover, it’s a ferocious metal assault from start to finish, and it’s a classic for any serious athlete.
2. Metallica, “Fuel” (1997)
A good workout song often has inspiring lyrics, and that’s what Metallica delivered with their 1997 track “Fuel.” The song, off 1997’s “Reload,” features the fist-pumping lyrics, “Gimme fuel, gimme fire, gimme that which I desire.” Those add a nice, fiery punch to any workout.
1. Mastodon, “The Wolf is Loose” (2006)
Mastodon can do no wrong in this girl’s book. Sure, plenty of their music is sludgy and perhaps not the best pace for a workout, but don’t forget the raging numbers. “The Wolf If Loose,” off 2006’s “Blood Mountain,” belongs on any workout list, with its speedy drumming and brutal screams. It’s the kind of song that makes time go by fast, and that’s a good thing for those pumping iron. For those reasons, and simply because Mastodon rocks, “The Wolf is Loose” is No. 1 on our list of the best heavy metal workout songs.
Find Audio Ink Radio’s list of the 10 greatest extreme metal bands of all time here.
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