Music Helps You Stick to Your Workout

(by Jorge Cruise in USA Weekend)

It turns out music can be for more than just your ears. A study by Fairleigh Dickinson University says people who listen to music while they exercise are more likely to stick to their workout plan. The study also found that listening to music led to significantly more weight and body fat loss.

But how can just a little Janet Jackson make such a big difference?

"Music is a powerful motivator," says Christopher A. Capuano, director of psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson. "It is also effective at distracting from the negative associations of exercise, such as physical exertion, heavy breathing and perspiration."

Capuano notes that upbeat or fast-tempo songs are better for more strenuous exercise. Most important? Listening to what you like best.