The athleticism of UVA’s president Jim Ryan is no joke. Just this year he completed his 12th consecutive Boston Marathon and he continues to share his love of running with students through “Run with Jim”. On August 19th he invited bright-eyed first years like myself to run 2 miles around Virginia’s scenic campus. Through this event Ryan gives students the opportunity to meet him in a more casual setting and creates greater camaraderie between Hoos.
I will be the first to admit that I am no Jim Ryan. I aspire to one day run a marathon, but training for this goal has been lacking. As much as I have attempted to incorporate running into my routine, I had never been able to make it an enjoyable experience. Until recently, when I found a good playlist. The right music can be a game changer when it comes to running. So let’s get our hearts pumping, legs moving, and run like Jim with these 10 songs.
- We Found Love by Rihanna (feat. Calvin Harris)
- Rihanna + Calvin Harris is a duo that never flops. The beat drop in this song will drive you forward like nothing else, making it my favorite way to start my run on a high note.
- I Love It by Icona Pop (feat. Charli XCX)
- We are seeing a Charli XCX revival and I am so here for it. She is a pop virtuoso who knows how to make a hit. While listening to this song on a run it is not uncommon to have the realization that when it comes to running: “I love it!”
- Green Light by Beyonce
- This song takes a bit longer for the hype to begin but it is so worth the wait. When Queen Bee tells you to go, you have no choice but to go. There is no better motivation than Beyonce.
- Maneater by Nelly Furtado
- It has been scientifically proven that it is impossible to not feel extremely attractive while listening to this song. Under the influence of Nelly Furtado you will feel a new level of confidence in yourself and your running capabilities. Because you can do it!
- Gimme More by Britney Spears
- Another 2000’s hit and you can’t help but feel good. Like Beyonce, Britney is telling you to give her more and you have to listen. This song will push you to give more effort, more miles.
- New Romantics by Taylor Swift
- Who’s excited for 1989 Taylor’s version?!? Taylor’s screaming in the song as you’re screaming internally, but Tay and I both know you can push through.
- I Like It by Enrique Iglesias (feat. Pitbull)
- Similar to “I Love It”, this song will have you saying “I like it!” about the pain in your chest. Mr. 305 will fuel you through the next 3 minutes and 52 seconds like no other man can.
- Bang Bang Bang by Jessie J, Ariana Grande, and Nicki Minaj
- This song will set you into overdrive, literally. As you near the end of your run let the power of Nicki Minaj fuel you.
- Can’t Hold Us by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
- You can’t be held back. This is the moment. Tonight is the night. Mackelmore and Ryan Lewis are highly invested in your success.
- Applause by Lady Gaga
- Give yourself a round of applause. You deserve it!