FACE THE MUSIC

If you like the idea of working out after tough days at work, but often struggle to muster the energy or motivation, pick a playlist and zone out. New research out of the University of Edinburgh has found that listening to uplifting music when you’re mentally tired will give you a boost of energy and focus that can neutralise mental fatigue. e subjects in the study were asked to complete a tiring computer-based cognitive test, in order to make them feel mentally fatigued, before going on a run. e runners who soundtracked their e orts with upbeat songs hit the same level of intensity and endurance capacity as when they were feeling fresh – but the subjects who didn’t listen to music were held back by their mental fatigue. e researchers believe that could be because uplifting music alters our perception of e ort, making it easier for us to exercise when we’re mentally but not physically fatigued – the usual scenario after a long day’s work.