More power to ya

As I said before, I’m doing this running thing. (Which, to be clear, is not really running at all, but more of a rapid walking/falling shuffle, as if I keep catching myself mid-trip on a rug.)

So my inner information gatherer has been driving me to research all kind of running-related things. Eventually that led me to the Nike+ program, which appears to be a glorified pedometer. I have not purchased this gizmo yet, because all of my Apple products are too ancient vintage to be compatible with the Nike receiver.

Still, I am in love with one fantastic concept from the Nike+ gear — the power song. Tap a button and Nike+ instantly plays your own pre-programmed “power song,” for those moments when you need a little extra oomph.

 

That got me to thinking about my own power songs — the tunes I turn to for extra motivation. (And manually select from my iPod playlist because my mp3 player is so old it belongs in the Apple museum vintage.)

This song goes on all of my workout playlists because it has a sassy beat, it makes me want to dance and I love it. But I wouldn’t say it’s the most motivational song on my iPod.

(NOTE: This video is probably not suitable for work unless your boss is cool with Abraham Lincoln in sensual situations. And if that’s the case, your job is AWESOME.)

 

On the other hand, I think this tune is motivational even though I can’t identify with the lyrics (“I took the bullets outta Fifty and put ’em in my .45.” I mean, I can’t even remember the last time I did that.)

A friend put this on a mix for me when I was going through a particularly difficult personal time, and it helped to scream at the top of my lungs, “Hate it or love it the underdog’s on top, and I’m gonna shine, homie, until my heart stops!”

Sadly, Fifty Cent’s rhymes are so slow, they bring my feet down to a crawl.

 

So I’m leaning toward this as my power song. It’s fun, fast, brash and an old favorite.

 

Extending the concept a little, I’d have to look to Sonic Youth for my Life Power Song, since every little girl I know wanted to grow up to be Kim Gordon. But forget about running to this music. Just slink around and look awesome.

 

I will also take this under consideration. I know it’s one of those sappy songs that every girl lists as her favorite, but I can’t help it. This part gets me every time: God help you if you are a phoenix and you dare to rise up from the ash, A thousand eyes will smolder with jealousy — while you are just flying past.

 

Sing it, sister!

Now tell me. What are your power songs — either for working out or just living life? I’m also curious to hear any feedback on the Nike+ thingy. Do you use one? If not, how do you stay motivated during your workouts?