The Argument for Calmer Music in Pre-Race Rituals
There are a couple of staples that every swimmer in a final usually takes to the ready room: Suit, goggles, cap and a warm parka. However, there’s one item that is a must-have for many swimmers that is absent from this list: Headphones. Music is a tool that many swimmers use to pump themselves up before their race. It’s common to see many people even walk out to the blocks with their headphones on over their caps. But what does music do for us in a scientific sense?
The Effects of Music
Music can do many things, such as reducing blood pressure and increasing dopamine production. It also has many effects that science can’t explain, such as increased motivation and focus. There’s one effect of music that should be covered more often in an athletic context: Intensity.
The Link Between Intensity and Performance
Most people assume that songs that are more intense are better hype-up songs. However, new studies have actually shown that songs that are more mellow may be more beneficial for your pre-race routine. In Music in Sport and Exercise: An Update on Research and Application, songs that receive a rating closer to a 6 or 7 out of 10 on an intensity scale can decrease stress and cortisol.
In a swimming context, this particular function can be very helpful for longer races like a 500 freestyle. These races require a level heart rate as to not feel out of breath. This might mean listening to a soulful Adele song like “Rolling in the Deep,” instead of a more intense song like “Symphony of Destruction” by Megadeth. In addition to keeping heart rates low, a calmer vibe might also help avoid going out too fast and forgetting important details.
Swimmers tend to be creatures of habit with pre-race routines that seem to dictate success. Changing this routine purposelessly is not the point of this article. But, if a change to the routine is necessary, then try and see if the advice above works.