Everyone has different ways of staying motivated during long workouts. Some people choose a custom music playlist full of their favorite tunes, others listen to audiobooks and some prefer to run or bike without headphones and concentrate on the sounds of nature. But I’ve found something else that can really do the trick of not only getting motivated but also staying that way: a good podcast.
By now, you’ve surely heard of podcasts, even if you don’t personally listen to them. There are literally thousands to choose from and everyone from comedians to scientists to your neighbor, Joe, seems to have one. Finding the right podcast can be daunting, which is why I’ve created a list of the best podcasts to listen to for those long, or even short, bike rides. Ranging from the news, true crime, comedy and health, there’s a little bit of something for everyone.
TED TALKS DAILY
The famous TED Talks videos now offer daily talks from previous conferences, each lasting around and average of 15-20 minutes each. With a vast array of subjects like technology, health and wellness, business, politics, and psychology, these talks are a great way to distract your mind from tired legs while learning something in return.
THIS AMERICAN LIFE
Probably one of the more well known podcasts, This American Life is a weekly show that changes theme and stories each time. Running an hour long per episode, the podcast sends listeners on emotional roller coasters full of humor, plot twists and some of the craziest stories you won’t believe are all true.
THE DOLLOP
Comedian Dave Anthony spends an hour and a half each week telling a story from (mostly) American history to his friend in the most hilariously educational way possible. The two men spend equal time asking questions and mocking each other in a way that makes you feel like you’re sitting in the room, laughing a long with them. After each week, you’ll find yourself asking “how have I never heard of that before?” And then telling all your friends about it afterwards.
SERIAL
An investigative journalism podcast, Serial first rose to fame when it shone light on a murder case from 1999 and had everyone talking. Now featuring three seasons, each covering a different story, Serial is a podcast that will keep you wanting more and on the edge of your bike seat.
MY FAVORITE MURDER
One of the most popular true crime podcasts to blow up in the last couple of years features two women, Georgia Hardstark and Karen Kilgariff, taking turns each telling a story of murder and crime, mixed in with a bit of comedy. Not for the easily offended, My Favorite Murder touches on topics of abuse, mental health, and the psychology behind true crime all while reminding listeners that they are comedians first and, in no way, experts in the matter.
ASK A CYCLING COACH
A podcast created by the cycling app TrainerRoad, Ask A Cycling Coach is a weekly podcast where the hosts answer listeners’ questions about cycling and triathlon trainings. Great for anyone looking for some more insight to becoming a better, healthier and faster cyclist.
SHREDED BY SCIENCE
Ever wondered whether you should do cardio before or after lifting weights? Or more personally, why all that cardio makes you gassy? Be prepared to get some weird looks, as this podcast will have you laughing out loud while you ride. SBS features fitness gurus, experts and personal trainers who discuss real-world fitness problems in a light-hearted yet scientific approach.
What are some of your favorite podcasts? Tell me below (I love finding new things to litsen to!)