For many athletes and exercise enthusiasts, music isn't just something playing in the background—it's a vital ingredient for getting the most out of their workouts. While some prefer podcasts or the sounds of nature, others rely on the power of catchy tunes and motivational lyrics to keep them going during exercise.

Music's impact on workout sessions is profound. It not only helps ease discomfort and boost morale, but it also enhances stamina, making strenuous routines more manageable and enjoyable.

Simply put, music acts like a natural performance enhancer, helping us push through our workouts and achieve better results without realizing it. 

Cristina Hernandez, a Miami-based DJ, understands the symbiotic relationship between music and exercise, leveraging the power of music to enhance her workouts. 

Known professionally as Cristi Hernz, Cristina is a dynamic DJ and music producer hailing from Miami Beach, FL. With a passion for blending diverse musical styles, she incorporates Latin, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and electronic beats into her vibrant sets.

Cristina's keen interest in how music influences mood, motivation, and physical performance led her to her involvement at Florida International University in researching the effects of beats per minute (BPM) on aerobic and anaerobic exercises. This study involved creating playlists to see how different music tempos affected the intensity of workouts, particularly on a treadmill, showcasing her deep dive into the music-fitness nexus. This study was led by her Sports Psychology professor, Dr. Jason Kostrna, who knew Cristina had a background in DJing and offered her to be a lead researcher with other students in her program by putting together the playlist organized by BPMs to then conduct the research with a Treadmill and students as the participants.

The exploration of music's influence on exercise performance has a long history, dating back to 1911 when Leonard Ayres observed that cyclists pedaled faster when music was played. Since then, psychologists have conducted numerous studies investigating how different types of music affect physical activities, ranging from casual walks to intense sprints.

Research has revealed two key factors that have emerged as significant in workout music: tempo, or speed, and rhythm response—the extent to which a song prompts movement or dancing. 

While individual preferences may vary, fast-paced songs with strong beats are generally the most invigorating during exercise. A recent survey of 184 college students revealed that hip-hop, rock, and pop were among the most popular genres for workout playlists, highlighting the preference for upbeat music to enhance physical performance.

Cristina, with her percussion-based beats, embodies the essence of this research. Her fast-paced, culturally diverse music sets the mood for any workout enthusiast. Identified by Miami's lively beats, heavy drumming, and a tempo that boosts morale, her music maximizes workout performance.

This passion for percussion-based music influences Cristina's workout routines as well. By syncing her movements with energetic rhythms, she draws motivation and enhances her performance. This integration of music into her workouts creates a synergistic relationship between her two passions, optimizing her fitness experience.

These rhythmic tunes sync with body movements to increase endurance and stamina, helping to ward off fatigue and improve performance. The variation in tempo keeps her workouts dynamic and effective, ensuring she stays engaged and energized.

This rhythm-driven approach extends to her professional life as well. As the force behind Selva Beats MIA, Cristina collaborates with various DJs in Miami to host events where music and movement converge. Her ability to captivate audiences with her energetic beats creates a lively atmosphere, with the dynamic dancing and movement of the crowd reflecting the infectious energy of her shows.

Scientific findings support this natural inclination to dance at music events. Research has revealed a strong neural connection between music and movement, where even listening to favorite tunes can activate the brain's movement coordination areas, compelling us to sway or tap along. This connection beautifully explains our instinctual response to rhythm and melody in the music we love.

Music and exercise form an unbeatable duo, infusing vitality and effectiveness into our fitness regimens. Consider Cristina Hernandez as an example: she thrives on infectious beats, especially those with a resounding rhythm.

When you groove along to the music, it's like turbocharging your workout. Not only does it help ward off fatigue, but it also amps up your performance. So, when you're gearing up for your next gym session, don't forget to bring your favorite tracks along. They could be the extra push you need to reach your fitness aspirations!