Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge lists top five best songs
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 18.11.24. | 07:03
When not listening to Clarkson, Kipchoge enjoys the timeless melodies of country legend Kenny Rogers.
Two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge has revealed that he doesn’t rely solely on his unmatched physical endurance and mental discipline to conquer the miles. He turns to his favorite music for motivation.
The marathon star has carefully curated a playlist that fuels him during every stride. His go-to artist? Pop sensation Kelly Clarkson.
“I’m a big fan of Kelly Clarkson. I listen to all her music. The first song goes, ‘What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” Kipchoge told Shokz, with whom he has partnered to launch limited-edition headphones.
This particular song resonates with Kipchoge because running is one of the toughest physical and mental challenges. There are moments, especially after grueling training sessions or races, when the exhaustion feels overwhelming as if one might collapse under the strain. Yet, it’s precisely this intensity that makes him stronger.
“That’s what keeps me running. I push on because I’ve realized running can’t kill me—it makes me stronger,” he added.
When not listening to Clarkson, Kipchoge enjoys the timeless melodies of country legend Kenny Rogers. “I’m also partial to Kenny Rogers—especially the 1979 throwback Coward of the County,” he said.
Listening to his playlist helps Kipchoge stick to his rigorous schedule and makes the miles fly by. His other favorite songs include Coat of Many Colors by country legend Dolly Parton and Kenya by Kenyan rapper and singer Nyashinski.
“I’ve been more motivated because I can listen to music that inspires me. That’s the only way I can run fast and finish happily. You feel energetic,” he asserted.
Scientific studies support Kipchoge’s experience, showing that music can have a tangible effect on performance, particularly in athletics. Research suggests that music can improve endurance, enhance mood, reduce perceived effort, and increase motivation during exercise.
Athletes who listen to music while running or cycling tend to perform better and go longer than those who train silently. Music can also lower the perception of exertion, making strenuous activities feel easier by distracting the brain from focusing on physical discomfort.
